The History Of Witchcraft & Women: Magic, rituals and the patriarchy

There’s a fascinating lecture coming up in Brighton next month that dives deep into the history and modern symbolism of the Witch. On Wednesday, March 11, 2026, the Brighthelm Church and Community Centre is hosting The History Of Witchcraft & Women: Magic, rituals and the patriarchy, a talk organized by Seed Talks.

The lecture will be led by Dr. Laura Kounine, an Associate Professor of Early Modern History at the University of Sussex, whose expertise lies specifically in witch-hunts, gender, and emotion. Dr. Kounine will explore the historical persecution that took place between 1450 and 1750, a period when an estimated 100,000 people were judged, with women making up about 75% of the accused. The discussion will analyze how the fears of the time often centered on the female body—particularly the post-menopausic body—and will also address the complex question of why men were sometimes accused within that deeply patriarchal society. Beyond the history, the talk will pivot to the present day, examining how the figure of the Witch has been reclaimed as a powerful feminist icon. This modern resurgence, visible everywhere from academic discourse to platforms like WitchTok, sees the Witch symbolizing resistance to traditional norms and embodying sexual freedom and empowerment.

If you are planning to attend, the event takes place at the Brighthelm Church and Community Centre, located at 53 North Road. Doors open at 7:00 PM (19:00), with the lecture starting at 7:30 PM and concluding around 9:30 PM (21:30). The session includes a dedicated Q&A segment, allowing attendees to engage directly with Dr. Kounine’s research. Tickets for the lecture are priced at £16.00, and it is designated as an event for those aged 16 and over.