Lecture – The Diabolical Arts and Daily Life in New France

Delve into Tales of 17th Century Witchcraft!

In the fall of 1660, the people of Québec begin to fear that evil forces are among them. Ominous omens appear in the sky, and a nun claims that sorcerers and magicians have arrived, practicing diabolical arts. A terrified young servant sees demons and accuses a miller of being the sorcerer behind the apparitions.

These intriguing tales of witchcraft reveal much more than just superstitions: they offer a unique look at daily life in New France, touching on migration, family, work, and fears within the colony. Explore this fascinating history at our lecture!

Mairi Cowan

Mairi Cowan is an Associate Professor in the Department of Historical Studies at the University of Toronto Mississauga. Her research focuses on the social and religious history of Scotland and New France. Her most recent book, The Possession of Barbe Hallay: Diabolical Arts and Daily Life in Early Canada (McGill-Queen’s University Press, 2022), is a microhistory of a case of bewitchment and demonic possession in New France.

This lecture is presented by the Société historique de Montréal.