The Great Scottish Witch Hunt of 1661-1662

The history of events relating to European witch hunting can be traced back to the Medieval Inquisition and the Knights Templar. Yes, long before the Salem witch trials of colonial Massachusetts, witchcraft — and by consequence witch trials and witch burning — had spread across Europe (remember, the American colonists brought over both good and bad).

One of the most concentrated periods of witch hunting occurred in Scotland during the 17th century. According to The Journal of British Studies by Brian Levack:

“During 1661 and 1662 Scotland experienced one of the largest witch hunts in its history. Within the space of sixteen months no fewer than 660 persons were publicly accused of various acts of sorcery and disabolism… We do not know how many people were executed during the hunt, but the report of John Ray, the English naturalist, that 120 were believed to have been burned during his visit to Scotland suggests that the total number was substantial… At no other time in Scottish history, with the possible exception of 1597, were so many people accused of witchcraft within such a brief period of time.”

As evidence of the Great Scottish Witch Hunt of 1661-1662, and the burnings, the May 16 to 23, 1661 issue of Mercurius Publicus reported:

“There were several Witches Men and Women burnt at Edinburgh the last week, and some of them, when they came to dye [sic], said Argyle was a Witch, and did often appear in the likeness of a Fox.”

I am not certain about the reference to “Argyle” in this issue of Mercurius Publicus and welcome any comments with explanation below. I can’t help but wonder if the reference was to Archibald Campbell, Marquess of Argyll, who was beheaded for high treason four days after this newsbook was published, on May 27, 1661.

Below are images from the May 16 to 23, 1661 Mercurius Publicus, which was co-edited by English journalism legends Henry Muddiman and John Berkenhead: