The Reformation led to a decline in witch trials in Protestant regions from "summary" of Religion and the Decline of Magic by Keith Thomas
The Reformation played a significant role in the decline of witch trials in Protestant regions. The religious upheaval that swept across Europe during the sixteenth century brought about a shift in theological perspectives and attitudes towards witchcraft. Protestant reformers, such as Martin Luther and John Calvin, challenged the traditional Catholic beliefs regarding magic and sorcery. They emphasized the supremacy of God's power over the supernatural realm, reducing the fear and paranoia associated with witchcraft. As Protestantism gained ground, the authorities in Protestant territories began to adopt a more skeptical and rational approach towards accusations of witchcraft. The Protestant clergy, influenced by the teachings of the reformers, discouraged the belief in witchcraft as a real and tangible threat. Instead, they argued that witch trials were based on superstition and erroneous interpretations of scripture. This shift...
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