Man As Witch: Male | Witches In Central Europe

: Most were poor peasants or artisans, representing a sample of the ordinary population rather than social elites.

: Many were seen as "weak" or "different," including those who were elderly, disabled, or mentally ill. Man as Witch: Male Witches in Central Europe

: In certain areas of the Holy Roman Empire between 1530 and 1730, the percentage of male victims ranged from 13% to 27%. In some specific regions like Carinthia, men formed the majority at 68% of those accused. : Most were poor peasants or artisans, representing

While popular memory often associates witchcraft almost exclusively with women, the historical reality in Central Europe shows a different distribution: In some specific regions like Carinthia, men formed

: Accusations often targeted men who did not fit the era's ideal of traditional masculinity; being called a witch was frequently an attack on a man's virility or social standing. Common Accusations and Legal Context