Witchcraft in the Roman World: Curses, Spells & Sorcery

Step into the shadowy world of magic in the Roman Empire, where curses were scratched onto lead tablets, amulets offered protection, and spells promised love, revenge or justice.

From the legendary Circe and Medea to the feared witches of Roman literature and the everyday practitioners of spells, curses and protective charms, this talk explores how Romans understood and engaged with the supernatural.

Drawing on archaeological evidence, literary sources, and artistic representations, Thania M Flores examines the objects, rituals, and beliefs associated with magic across the Roman world. From curse tablets and protective amulets to depictions of witches and sorceresses in art and literature, the evidence offers a fascinating insight into Roman attitudes towards the supernatural.

The talk will also consider the laws and social attitudes that sought to regulate or suppress certain magical practices, offering a deeper understanding of the hopes, fears, and anxieties that shaped everyday life in the Roman world.

This talk takes place online only via Zoom.
A link to the recording will be sent to all participants after the talk.

Non-Members - £5
Members - Free