Sponsored by the Office for History of Science and Technology
Robert A. Hatch
University of Florida
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Between Balaam and Behemoth: Interrogating the Devils of Loudun, 1629-1634
Issues of identity and truth--not to mention witnessing and testimony--are cardinal considerations when interrogating souls demonically possessed. This talk explores the relation between early modern epistemology and more recent representational strategies evoked by the notorious witchcraft trials at Loudun (1629-1634). For nearly four centuries the Devils of Loudun have attracted scholarly and popular attention, still today assuming new and different forms on stage and screen, in literature and fiction, in popular songs and sprawling symphonies. This talk identifies some death-dealing differences between fact and fiction and the several perils of popular perspective. I argue that the Grandier Affaire raised critical questions of certainty and doubt that confounded contemporary legal, medical, and scientific experts, that these issues helped shape the New Science. Descartes and his critics provide clues and examples for group discussion.
4:00PM
Monday, March 14
203 Wheeler Hall Office for History of Science and Technology, 543 Stephens Hall #2350
University of California at Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720-2350
tel: (510) 642-4581, e-mail: Office@ohst7.berkeley.edu
