Discussion 1 HIST 3130

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School

University of Guelph *

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Course

3130

Subject

Philosophy

Date

Oct 30, 2023

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docx

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Uploaded by JusticeGazellePerson472

The witnesses in the case against Jane Kent provided both of superstitious and questionable evidence to support the accusations of witchcraft. The key witnesses included the deceased girl's father, who claimed that Kent had initially bewitched his swine after an arrangement they had with 2 pigs. Which then caused severe damage to his daughter like the body swelling and and discoloration creating credence to the belief in witchcraft. Like a religious offence typically referring to a crime or wrongdoing that is related to or influenced by religious beliefs or practices such as witchcraft in this case. In the past when the Old Bailey Proceedings took place, religion played a significant role in the legal and structure of society. As a result, offenses that were perceived as violating religious doctrines or moral standards were often treated as religious offenses such as when we learned in this past lecture. He also alleged that Kent had bewitched his wife. I believe Dr. Hainks, would be a reliable witness because he was a doctor who recommended an unconventional remedy involving the wife's bodily fluids. In this time, he was a medical practitioner and most likely would have been a credible source in the community there for being a reliable witness and claimed to hear Kent's voice during a peculiar incident. The testimony of a woman who searched Kent was equally unusual, mentioning a teat on her back and unusual holes behind her ears. This would make her potentially less reliable then the doctor just based on the fact that her was often based on superstitions and unfounded beliefs about physical signs of witchcraft The case raises questions about the reliability of such evidence in witchcraft trials during the 17th century. It highlights the blurred lines between superstition, concrete evidence and the legal process, as well as the pivotal role played by witnesses in shaping the outcome of such cases. Ultimately, the jury's decision to find Jane Kent not guilty may indicate a degree of skepticism towards the evidence presented, suggesting that even in an era of widespread witch trials, some individuals were willing to question the validity of such accusations. Discussion week 4 After reading this case it seems to me that the evidence is in conclusive and not reliable. All the witness doesn’t match and conflict some say it was intentional kick to the stomach and other say it was an accidental fall on a busy street. The injuries that Robert Pasley had weakens the case against Williams Pasely’s friends. They engaged in the traditional “Guy Fawks day pranks” which contributed to the chaotic and messy situation. Which escalated the tension between them. This still doesn’t make it ok what he did, but this is a reminder that how something that seems harmless like pranks in a reckless situation can turn out. Even though William was involved there isn’t enough evidence to be tried. Overall this is a very unfortunate case and situation that everyone should learn from but I don’t believe has enough evidenced to be punished for. whether intentional or accidental, were not conclusively determined based on the available evidence and testimonies.

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