Post-Modernism and Witchcraft Histories

Abstract

The Neopagan movement relies extensively on representations of the past for historical, cultural and ideological legitimacy. Of particular importance in these histories is the reclaiming or re-creation of pre-Christian pagan societies, the witchhunting crazes of the early modern period, and the reinterpretation of the rise of modernity and industrialism. The means by which these histories are constructed and the changes in the processes by which historical representations are formed are indicative of broader changes in the configuration of historical legitimacy in western culture.