This week we’re taking a deep dive into all things witchy by discussing The Malleus Maleficarum (edited by Peter Maxwell-Stuart). Originally written by Heinrich Kramer in the 15th century, this book played a pivotal role in the witch hunts across Europe. Utilizing Maxwell-Stuart's translation and introduction, we explore the Malleus’ origins, impact, and why women are often seen at the center of witch trials.  

This episode marks one of the first collaborations of the season with Manchester University Press, offering you an exclusive discount on this text. This edition of the Malleus offers a clear, readable translation and an introduction that lays out the context of late-medieval Europe, a time of spiritual paranoia when powerful men suspected women’s sexuality was a tool of the Devil.  

Get your copy here: https://manchesteruniversitypress.co.uk/9781526181473/ and use discount code THEORY30 for 30% off (until the 23rd December 2025).  

Sources and Media 

You kind find all source material discussed in the episode here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/11MVURJIBg6mMOuf7J-yf7ma4KgbkmowzWuQE66yU3CA/edit?usp=sharing  

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Music 

Outro: Lori Beauty, Coma Studios