Cunning folk

Cunning folk, also known as wise men and wise women, were practitioners of folk medicine, folk magic, and divination within the various traditions of folklore in Christian Europe from at least the 15th up until the early 20th century.

History[edit | edit source]

The term "cunning man" or "cunning woman" was most widely used in southern England and the Midlands, as well as in Wales. Such people were also frequently known across England as "wizards", "wise men" or "wise women" or "conjurers". In Cornwall they were sometimes referred to as "pellars", which some etymologists suggest originated from the term "expellers", referring to the practice of expelling evil spirits. Folklorists often used the term "white witch", though this was infrequently used amongst the ordinary folk as the term "witch" had general connotations of evil.

Practices[edit | edit source]

The cunning folk's practices were most common among the ordinary people, especially among those who worked in an agrarian setting. The cunning folk offered a wide variety of services for their clients, depending on their area of expertise. They were often sought for their knowledge in herbal remedies, midwifery, and as consultants for various everyday problems and solutions.

References[edit | edit source]

External links[edit | edit source]

WikiMD article on Cunning Folk

Cunning folk Resources
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