From revered priestesses to feared figures of folklore, the story of witches is bound to the dangers of being a powerful woman in a patriarchal world.
Across cultures and centuries, the witch has taken many forms, often cast as a threat, a mystery, or a scapegoat. Popular images paint her as old, twisted, and dangerous, stirring potions and trouble.
But history tells a different story, one we’re finally ready to hear. Many so-called witches were once respected healers, midwives, and wise women, trusted voices in their communities later vilified as society’s fears and power structures shifted.
Intrigued? Click through the following gallery to uncover how faith, fear, and control turned wisdom into witchcraft.