Cunning folk

Practitioners of folk magic in Europe

Cunning folk were practitioners of folk magic and healing in Europe, particularly from the Middle Ages to the early 20th century. They were known for their skills in herbalism, divination, and protection against witchcraft. Cunning folk were often sought after for their knowledge and abilities to solve problems that were beyond the reach of conventional medicine and religion.

History

The tradition of cunning folk dates back to ancient times, with roots in pagan practices and shamanism. During the Middle Ages, they became more prominent as they provided services that were not offered by the Church or physicians. Cunning folk were often seen as a necessary part of rural and urban communities, offering remedies for illnesses, protection against evil spirits, and assistance in finding lost objects.

A depiction of a cunning woman

In the 16th century, the role of cunning folk became more defined as they were increasingly called upon to counteract the perceived threats of witchcraft. They were often involved in identifying witches and providing protective charms and amulets. Despite their popularity, cunning folk sometimes faced persecution, especially during periods of intense witch hunts.

Practices

Cunning folk employed a variety of techniques in their work. These included:

• Herbalism: Using plants and herbs to create remedies for physical and spiritual ailments.
• Divination: Predicting the future or uncovering hidden information through methods such as scrying, tarot, and astrology.
• Protection: Crafting charms and amulets to ward off evil spirits and hexes.
• Healing: Providing cures for illnesses that were believed to be caused by supernatural forces.

Social Role

Cunning folk held a unique position in society. They were often respected for their knowledge and skills, yet they also operated on the fringes of accepted religious and medical practices. Their services were sought by people from all walks of life, including the wealthy and powerful, who valued their ability to provide solutions to personal and social problems.

Gertrud Ahlgren, a known cunning woman

Decline

The decline of cunning folk began in the late 19th century with the rise of scientific medicine and the professionalization of healthcare. As modern medicine became more accessible and effective, the need for folk healers diminished. Additionally, the Enlightenment and the spread of rationalism led to a decrease in the belief in supernatural causes of illness and misfortune.

Legacy

Despite their decline, the legacy of cunning folk can still be seen in modern alternative medicine and neo-pagan practices. Many of the herbal remedies and protective charms used by cunning folk have been incorporated into contemporary holistic health practices.

Diorama of a cunning woman in the Museum of Witchcraft and Magic

Related pages

• Witchcraft
• Herbalism
• Divination
• Folk medicine
• Magic (supernatural)