The Devil in the Duchy of Württemberg

Abstract

In this chapter, we will look at the realities of the first element in the diabolic stereotype, the idea that the Devil was an active, direct agent in the world, a palpable spiritual force, or even a distinct physical entity, that people could perceive and even interact with much like a normal person. We will start by considering where this idea came from, then look at how it connected to existing beliefs and practices in the region including Württemberg, how it evolved in the interaction between learned theories and popular culture, and finally consider what role it played in the development of popular mentalities and collective experiences during the early modern period.