What was one similar characteristic shared by European Jews and women accused of witchcraft during the Protestant Reformation and the Counter-Reformation?
One similar characteristic shared by European Jews and women accused of witchcraft during the Protestant Reformation and the Counter-Reformation was the perception of being marginalized and as outsiders in society. Both groups were often scapegoated and faced widespread discrimination and persecution during this period.
European Jews had long been considered outsiders and faced prejudice and persecution throughout history. During the Reformation and Counter-Reformation, this discrimination was exacerbated as theological tensions between Protestants and Catholics increased. Europe witnessed a rise in anti-Semitic sentiment, with Jews being accused of various crimes and conspiracies, as well as being blamed for the spread of Protestantism.
Similarly, women accused of witchcraft were often seen as marginalized figures. As the Reformation took hold, religious authorities and society became increasingly suspicious of anything seen as challenging the established order. Women, being seen as the weaker sex and associated with both sin and the devil, were particularly vulnerable. Many were accused of practicing witchcraft, and a witch-hunt frenzy swept across Europe during this period, resulting in the execution of thousands of women.
In both cases, European Jews and women accused of witchcraft became easy targets for scapegoating due to their perceived differences and their dissatisfaction with the existing social and religious orders. Both groups faced discrimination, exclusion, and persecution as a result.