The Tragic History of Witches and Their Furry Friends
Summary
This Halloween episode explores the history of witchcraft, from ancient Mesopotamia to the Salem trials, and its impact on animals. Hosts Wes, Mike, and Jeff discuss the 1474 trial of a rooster that laid an egg and the 1531 case where rats were summoned to court in France. They also examine why cats, particularly black ones, became symbols of witchcraft and tell the tragic story of Elizabeth Clark, a woman executed for witchcraft in 1645 partly due to her affection for stray cats.
Topics discussed
Sponsor: Brodo bone broth
Intro: Horror movies and witch stereotypes
Ancient history: Code of Hammurabi and water trials
Medieval witch hunts and misogyny
Sponsor: Dose liver support supplement
Salem Witch Trials and Sarah Good
The Rooster of Basel and hen sex change
Sponsor: Rocket Money finance app
Sponsor: Smalls fresh cat food
Cats as witch familiars and superstitions
Case study: Elizabeth Clark and Matthew Hopkins
Black cat adoption rates and shelter stats
Sponsor: Mint Mobile wireless plans
Sponsor: Miracle Made sheets
Fun segment: Picking a witch's familiar
Discussion: Technology vs. magic and Asimov
Recommendations: Movies, music, and food
Sports fandom and personal superstitions
Hypothetical: Who would you want to haunt you?
Outro: Scariest experiences and black cat adoption
Listen ad-free on Castria