Why do witches still fascinate us? Why, so often, are witches still associated more with women than men? What is it about current trends of the glamorous witch intrigues us? In a brand-new course blending disciplines of history, folklore and critical theory, we'll discuss cultural and historical factors surrounding the witch phenomenon. We'll explore how and why this perfect storm of events came together in such a way in the many places around the globe where the powers of the church and the crown had to find a common enemy amidst political tension and natural disaster. We’ll puzzle through the hazy stories and rhymes that tie ancient fairy belief to witch practices. We'll interrogate how the witch’s playbook intensified and expanded through the colonization of Africa and the Americas. We'll explore how witchcraft and fears about magic became racialized. Why do we call it “Black magic”? We'll look at historical and literary figures. And we'll try to right the wrongs by telling the truth about this relevant phenomenon. I’m Carol Campbell and I’ve been searching for answers about the witch panic for thirty years. Join me.