Specialist Tour: From Hagstones to Hopkins - Magic and Witchcraft

Molly Hughes is leading a specialist tour of the Glasgow Museums Resource Centre (GMRC) on Tuesday 17 November, from 2:30pm. It's called From Hagstones to Hopkins - Magic and Witchcraft, and it's one of those rare chances to get inside the GMRC and see things that don't usually make it onto the gallery floors.

Hughes is an outreach assistant and an occult history researcher, and she'll be drawing on the Resource Centre's huge collection to pull out objects related to magic and witchcraft. The tour isn't just about showing off the items, though; it's built around how the modern stereotype of the witch — the monstrous figure with the broomstick, the cauldron and the pointy hat — was forged over time, mirroring the theological and socio-political ideals of the day. It follows the evolution of witchcraft from its historical contexts through to contemporary perceptions, and it's set in the spirit of the dark half of the year.

There's a content warning for violence against women that applies to the session, which is worth keeping in mind. The tour is open to all ages, so it's as much for curious adults as it is for younger folks with an interest in the subject.

It's free to attend, but spaces are limited to 15, so you'll need to book your spot in advance. The GMRC is at 200 Woodhead Road, Glasgow South Side G53 7NN, and the tour starts at 2:30pm on Tuesday 17 November.