What were "cunning folk," and how did they operate in Europe?
βCunning folkβ were traditional healers and wise men or women found throughout Europe from the medieval period into the early modern era. They practiced folk medicine, divination, and magic, offering services to local communities.
They were often called upon to locate lost items, diagnose mysterious illnesses, or provide charms and protection against evil spirits and witchcraft.
π Community Role
Cunning folk were generally accepted within their communities and were seen as valuable problem solvers rather than threats.
π§ͺ Healing & Herbal Knowledge
They used a combination of herbal remedies, incantations, and traditional rituals to aid in healing and protection.
βοΈ Legal & Religious Views
While often tolerated, some faced persecution during witch hunts, especially if their practices drew suspicion from religious or legal authorities.
π Legacy
The tradition of cunning folk influenced later occult practices and remains part of modern folk magic and neopaganism today.
