Ireland's First Witch: Medieval Murderer? (Part 2)
After Dark: Myths, Misdeeds & the Paranormal
Deep Dive
Why was Alice Kyteler targeted by Bishop Richard de Ledred?
Bishop Richard de Ledred was determined to bring Alice Kyteler to trial, believing her to be a witch and a threat to the soul of Kilkenny. He saw her as a powerful woman who had circumvented the patriarchal norms of the time, which he viewed as heretical.
How did Alice Kyteler respond to the accusations against her?
Alice Kyteler actively engaged in delaying tactics to avoid formal proceedings. She used her connections to delay any summons and eventually fled Kilkenny to escape the bishop's authority.
What role did Petronella de Meath play in the accusations against Alice Kyteler?
Petronella de Meath was Alice Kyteler's servant and, after Alice fled, became the primary target of the bishop's accusations. She was tortured and forced to confess to witchcraft, which was used as evidence against Alice.
What was the significance of Petronella de Meath's execution?
Petronella de Meath's execution was one of the earliest known instances of a witch being burned at the stake in Europe. Her death served as a warning to the people of Kilkenny, reinforcing the church's authority and the consequences of defying it.
What was the relationship between Alice Kyteler and Petronella de Meath?
The relationship between Alice Kyteler and Petronella de Meath is described as close, with Petronella living in Alice's household and even having her daughter, Basilia, under Alice's care. However, the extent of their camaraderie is debated, with some suggesting it was more of a master-servant relationship.
What were some of the bizarre accusations made against Alice Kyteler?
Alice Kyteler was accused of consorting with a demon named Robert, son of Art, from the depths of the underworld. She was also said to have performed rituals involving the blood of cocks, herbs, and the remains of a decapitated robber and a stillborn child.
How did Alice Kyteler's son, William Outlaw Jr., attempt to protect her?
William Outlaw Jr. appealed to Sir Arnold Lepoir, a relative through Alice's fourth marriage, to stop the bishop's invasion of Alice's house. This led to the brief imprisonment of Bishop de Ledred, though he was eventually released.
What was the outcome for William Outlaw Jr. after Alice Kyteler fled?
William Outlaw Jr. was also accused of heresy and found guilty. To secure his release, he had to beg forgiveness from the bishop and undertake a pilgrimage to the Holy Land to reverse his excommunication.
What is the significance of Alice Kyteler's story in modern Ireland?
Alice Kyteler's story serves as a warning about the conflict between women's rights and religious extremism. It also reflects the ongoing struggle in Ireland, where powerful women are often seen as a threat by the church, as seen in cases like the mother and baby homes.
How is Alice Kyteler remembered in Kilkenny today?
Alice Kyteler is celebrated as a local folk hero, with her story being commemorated in various ways, including an inn named after her. However, Petronella de Meath, who was executed, is less celebrated despite her tragic fate.
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