The History of Witchcraft in Popular Culture

Schedule

Wed Dec 10 2025 at 07:00 pm to 09:30 pm

UTC+00:00

Location

Hen & Chicken | Bristol, EN

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Explore the witch in popular culture as a symbol of power, identity, and humanity. Followed by Q&A.
About this Event

Why do witches have such a strong pull on our collective imagination? Are they simply bewitching caricatures, or is there something more metaphysical that drives their continuing popularity?

 From the printed engravings of the 15th century to the images created by AI in the 21st century, witches continue to occupy a place in popular culture. They feature in art, literature, theatre, music, and film, and many more. 

Dr Julia Phillips will examine the role of the witch in popular culture, from its earlier depictions to the present day. Discover  why this figure  has remained so compelling, and how it has continually  evolved to embody  the fears, values and hopes of each generation. Expect a lively journey through history, myth and gender, and leave with a fresh perspective on one of culture’s most enduring icons.

Doors open at 7pm, talk starts at 7:30pm - come down early to grab a good seat!

Follow us on IG @seedtalks

Dr Julia Phillips is Hons Senior Research Associate and lecturer at the University of Bristol. She received her PhD for her research examining how witches and witchcraft were featured in newspapers in Victorian Britain. Her work has been published in books, academic journals, and popular magazines, and she is a regular presenter at conferences and events. Her primary research interests are the study of witchcraft in the 19th century and the development of modern Pagan Witchcraft in the 20th/21st centuries. 

Testimonials from our guests

Seed Talks created a friendly and inclusive atmosphere, it was a really wonderful experience. Thank you Seed Talks for facilitating such a powerful and important platform. 100% recommend you check out a Seed Talk near you! - Anna F.

Seed Talks have done an incredible job at making insanely cool topics easily digestible and enjoyable to learn about for ones self improvement. It's like Ted Talks, but cooler? And more accessible! - Eva W

I've attended a few of your talks over the past few months and have absolutely loved them so first of all thank you so much for bringing joy and understanding to the world of neuroscience. - Joe F



Agenda

🕑: 07:00 PM
Doors Open
🕑: 07:30 PM
Talk Starts
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Where is it happening?

Hen & Chicken, 210 North Street, Bristol, United Kingdom

Event Location & Nearby Stays:

Tickets

GBP 14.75 to GBP 34.45

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