The Curse of Pendle

Original version

BBC Radio 4 Extra

BBC Radio 4

BBC Radio 4 LW

BBC Radio 4 FM

Documentaries

Factual: History

BBC Radio 4 Extra - The Curse of Pendle

400 years on, novelist Jeanette Winterson considers the Pendle Witch trials.

Writer Jeanette Winterson explores the history and lasting impact of the Pendle Witch Trials in 1612.  From 2012.

Novelist Jeanette Winterson is fascinated by the Pendle witch trials of 1612. 

Centuries later, she contemplates their history - a tale of ambition, warring families and James I.

12 were accused, charged with the murder of 10 people by witchcraft. They are the best documented of all the witchcraft trials in English history. 

This is a fascinating story which moves beyond the localised accusation and hysteria of the well-worn Salem trials in the US and draws in the superstitions of James I, the desires of titled families to attract his good favour, and the local disputes and battles of two 'common' families.

Using the publication of the proceedings by the clerk of the court, Thomas Potts 'The Wonderfull Discoverie of Witches in the Countie of Lancaster', Jeanette weaves her own telling of the trial, whilst unearthing the back story and historic context.

Jeanette explores the local area, visiting key locations as she contemplates the "countie" of the time. Even today this area of Lancashire has an above average proportion of Catholic families and, during the reigns of Elizabeth I and James I, Catholic priests were regularly holding secret mass in the remote area of Pendle Hill. At the same time, James I was obsessed with witchcraft - he even wrote a book about it, Daemonologie.

Finally, Jeanette reflects personally on the trials and what they have meant to the development of the area.

Music composed by David Lloyd-Mostyn and performed by Aquilon
Producer:  Kevin Dawson

A Whistledown production for BBC Radio 4 first broadcast in November 2012.

Your digital radio entertainment station showcasing the best in comedy and drama

Your digital radio entertainment station showcasing the best in comedy and drama. With recent favourites from BBC Radio 4.

Accessibility links

Programme Index

The Curse of Pendle

Genres

Formats

BBC Radio 4 Extra

About BBC Radio 4 Extra