The concept of aerial navigation by individuals accused of witchcraft is a recurring motif in early modern European folklore and witch trials. Often depicted as nocturnal journeys to gatherings known as sabbats, these alleged flights frequently involved the use of magical ointments or enchanted objects like broomsticks. A classic example involves an accused witch recounting a dreamlike experience of soaring through the night sky to attend a clandestine meeting with other practitioners of magic.
This imagery served several purposes in the context of witch hunts. It provided a tangible manifestation of the perceived threat posed by witchcraft, reinforcing anxieties about unseen forces and secret gatherings. Descriptions of these nocturnal excursions often incorporated elements of traditional folklore and popular beliefs about magic, solidifying the association between witchcraft and diabolism in the public imagination. Furthermore, confessions of such flights, sometimes induced by torture or leading questions, served as evidence in witch trials, contributing to the persecution and execution of countless individuals. The enduring image continues to influence modern depictions of witchcraft in popular culture.
