This was the time that Christianity arrived and beliefs in Paganism and wise-men began to fade. The role of wise men became less important because the Church promised new ways of protection for the community.
The Church targetted anyone who followed Paganism instead of Christianity by spreading myths to discredit and ridicule wise folk. You were either branded a witch or a wizard that had evil powers and malicious intent. One of the famous myths of this time was that witches and wizards could fly on broomsticks.
This was due to herbal potions being used to treat common ailments such as headaches which contained hallucengic properties. One of the most popular herbs used was Mandrake.
Mandrake is a toxic herb and usually the root was used in the potions created. However the root contained a group of alkeloids which induced hallucinations and sensations of flying, the root was used to put people in an altered state of mind and numb pain.
At this time the Church took powers away from the wise folk that still existed. These were replaced by monks.
Picture of Mandrake.
Alot of people now believed in Christianity however some folk still believed in curses and spells. People were very superstitious and used to place animal bones, shoes, written charms and witches bottles in windows, doors, hearths and chimneys of their houses to prevent evil magic coming into their homes.
Witches bottles were used to ward off evil curses and spells put upon you by a witch. People used to urinate in them and place hairs and pins in the bottle and seal them. The idea was to cause excruciating pain to the witch that had cursed you and they would either then be forced to take the spell off you or die.
The belief in magic has now faded into the past as modern methods such as science is used to explain simple illnesses and diseases. Most of people's ideas of magic are now fictional however earth-orientated religions still exist today and are increasing in popularity.
Paganism is still celebrated across the world and magic is accepted as being natural forces which can assist in healing and spells. Witchcraft exists now as Wicca through the writings of Gerald Gardner, Doreen Valiante and Scott Cunnigham in the 20th century. Druidry still exist in society though remains hidden in society without the need for sacrificial rites.
Alternative therapies have bcome widely accepted in society alongside conventional medicines which are used to treat common problems and illnesses using herbs and crystals.
Superstitions still exist today about blackcats, magpies and walking under ladders and Halloween which is a traditional Celtic festival of the dead is still celebrated every year. As for the wise men and images of the witches and wizards they were simply scientists and docters of their time and traces of their skills still exist in modern day society.
