Wicca is a neo-pagan religion that reveres nature and magic. Its adherents, known as Wiccans, follow an ethical code that emphasizes respect for life and harmony with the universe. They celebrate festivals linked to natural cycles and the moon, and engage in magical rituals.
Tradition has it that this was done to ward off evil spirits, although now it is more of a festive way of getting rid of everything that is left over in the garden. Don’t be surprised to see Swedish flags flying everywhere, as King Charles Gustaf XVI celebrates his birthday on Walpurgis Day.
In Mexico and other Latin American countries, this phenomenon has also been documented, but since it is not possible to carry out a rigorous census to systematically evaluate the practice of witchcraft, the results are disproportionately different from one estimate to another.
The story of the witches is a fascinating tale of persecution, fear and liberation. From being seen as a danger and being punished by society, they have evolved to be respected and revered figures in modern practices such as Wicca.
The documentary _History of a Sorceress_ is filmed between Spain and Glastonbury (England), where the island of Avalon supposedly existed, and, through an initiatory journey with a group of modern sorceresses or wise women, director Monica Demes immerses herself in ancient Celtic rites.
Over the past decade, witches have emerged as central figures in film and television, solidifying their roles as symbols of power and narrative transformation. From productions like Oz the Great and Powerful to the phenomenon of Maleficent, these stories reflect a shift in the perception of female roles in popular culture, adding complexity and depth to their magical representations.
The legacy of these witch hunts persists, not as a reminder of a dark past, but as a mirror reflecting our insecurities and prejudices. It reminds us of the importance of questioning our beliefs and defending justice and equity, teaching us about society’s fragility in the face of fear.
