Mythology/Folklore

European, Scottish, Greek, Slavic, Japanese, Biblical, Numerous Others

Associated Holidays

Samhain, Halloween, Walpurgis Night, Día de las brujas

Location

Various

Witches of Note

Baba Yaga, Morgan le Fay, The Bell Witch, The Salem Witches, Witch of Endor, Circe, The Wicked Witch of the West, Mother Shipton

Key Points / Halloween Connection

- Strong connections to both the holiday and ancestral lines

- Use of magic, potions, familiars and central importance in European folklore makes them essential Halloween characters

- Pagan rooted faiths view them as benevolent forces who are to be celebrated

- Others who are attracted to the more ominous lore view them as an ideal Halloween costume for the fear it can cause

Rink Fact: The often seen green skinned witch is inspired by the movie version of The Wizard of Oz's Wicked Witch of the West

Brief Bio

"Witches" can refer to people who practice witchcraft, a figure in folklore often associated with evil magic and the devil, or a modern spiritual identity embraced by some, such as followers of Wicca and other practices like Hoodoo or Espiritismo.

Lore

- Weilds powerful magic to cast spells using arcane knowledge, talismans and various objects

- Accompanied by a familiar such as a cat, bat, rat or owl

- Often is part of a group (coven)

As a Symbol of Evil

- Weilds magic for nefarious purposes such as hexes and charms

- Has often pledged her soul to a higher malevolent power for personal gain

- Familar is aggressive or devious and treated as a servant

As a Symbol of Good

- Wields magic for noble purposes often focused on helping and/or healing

- Has a nurturing connection to nature and its inhabitants

- Familiar is treated as a trusted and loyal friend