The Elizabethan Period in History

The Elizabethan Period was the age of the Renaissance, of new ideas and new thinking. The introduction of the printing press during the Renaissance, one of the greatest tools in increasing knowledge and learning, was responsible for the interest in the different sciences and inventions - and the supernatural!

The new ideas, information and increased knowledge about science, technology and astrology led to a renewed interest in the supernatural including witches, witchcraft and ghosts which led to belief in superstitions and the supernatural. Facts about all of these subjects are included in this Elizabethan Period section.

Witchcraft and Witches in the period

During the Renaissance period people blamed unexplainable events as the work of witches. Women were those most often accused of being witches! The hysteria and paranoia regarding witches which was experienced in Europe did not fully extend to England during this turbulent period. However, Queen Elizabeth I passed a new and harsher witchcraft Law in 1562 leading to witch hunts and the prosecution of witches. Facts, Witchcraft Timeline and information about Witchcraft and Witches in the Renaissance Period.

Superstitions in the Elizabethan Period

Fear of the supernatural and forces of nature or God resulted in the belief of superstitions during the Elizabethan period. Renaissance Superstitions included those related to Witches Sneezing, Eclipse and the 7th son, of a seventh son, Peacock Feathers, Shoes, Spilling Salt and Pepper, Touching wood, Ladders and Black cats. Find out about the strange superstitions of the period, and compare them to the beliefs we have in the modern age. Facts and information about Superstitions during the Elizabethan Period.

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