Historian A: Margaret Murray – Socio-Religious Explanation "Margaret Murray argued that witch hunts were driven by deep-rooted social and religious tensions. She believed that accusations of witchcraft were a way communities expressed fears and tensions, often fueled by religious conflicts and social upheaval. Murray suggested that the witch hunts were a response to societal anxieties, with accusations serving as a means to reinforce religious orthodoxy and social order during times of crisis. Her view emphasizes the psychological and social factors behind the witch hunts, viewing them as collective responses to societal stress."

Historian B: Brian Levack – Political and Legal Factors "Brian Levack contends that witch hunts were primarily driven by political and legal motives. He argued that authorities used witchcraft accusations to suppress dissent, consolidate power, and control marginalized groups. Levack highlighted the role of legal procedures and state interest in promoting witch hunts, suggesting that they were not purely social or religious phenomena but also instruments of political control. His interpretation focuses on the institutional and political context that enabled the widespread persecution of accused witches."

Questions:

1. Summarize each historian's view on the causes of witchcraft accusations. (4 marks)

• Marking: