Causes and Consequences of Witchcraft Accusations in the Early Modern Period

History
GCSE / Year 10 / Grade 9
8 questions
~16 mins
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Causes and Consequences of Witchcraft Accusations in the Early Modern Period

Subject: HistoryGrade: GCSE / Year 10 / Grade 9
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Grade GCSE / Year 10 / Grade 9
A

Introduction to Witchcraft Accusations

Source A: Excerpt from a 16th-century pamphlet

'The fear of witches has spread across the land, as many women and men are accused based on rumours and suspicions. These accusations are often fueled by religious and social tensions.' Provenance: A pamphlet published in 1580, reflecting societal fears during the period.

1.
Explain why fear of witchcraft increased during the Early Modern period. (4 marks)
[4 marks]
2.
Compare the social and religious causes of witchcraft accusations. (6 marks)
[6 marks]
B

Causes of Witch Hunts

Source B: Testimony from a 17th-century witch trial

'Many women were accused because they were different or because neighbors wanted to settle scores. Religious beliefs also played a role as people believed witches made pacts with the devil.' Provenance: Testimony given during a witch trial in 1640.

1.
Outline the main causes that led to witch hunts in the Early Modern period. (4 marks)
[4 marks]
2.
Analyse how religious beliefs contributed to witch hunts. (6 marks)
[6 marks]
C

Consequences of Witchcraft Accusations

Source C: Witness account from a woman accused of witchcraft

'I was imprisoned, tortured, and eventually executed because I was different and people believed I was in league with the devil.' Provenance: Testimony from an accused witch, 1650.

1.
Explain the consequences faced by individuals accused of witchcraft. (4 marks)
[4 marks]
2.
Compare the impact of witchcraft accusations on victims and their communities. (6 marks)
[6 marks]
D

Processes and Outcomes of Witch Trials

Source D: Description of a witch trial procedure

'Accused witches were often examined for signs of guilt, such as the 'witch's mark,' and subjected to interrogation. Confessions, sometimes forced, led to executions.' Provenance: Contemporary account of trial procedures, 17th century.

1.
Outline the typical process of a witch trial in the Early Modern period. (4 marks)
[4 marks]
2.
Analyse the consequences of the trial procedures on the justice of witchcraft accusations. (6 marks)
[6 marks]

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Created
1/1/2026
Updated
1/1/2026
Type
worksheet