Beyond Simulation: An Enquiry Concerning Demonic Possession

Abstract

My analysis begins with a summary of two well-known cases of demonic possession, the so-called miracle of Laon and the bewitching of Anne Gunter (and a third, less-known case, is added towards the end for a further comparison). The ‘Miracle of Laon’ occurred in north-eastern France where, in November 1565, Nicole Obry became known as a young girl possessed by a spirit. The spirit appeared to Nicole as the soul of her deceased grandfather, and her family believed that she was a victim of demonic possession. Therefore, Nicole was exorcised by a Dominican friar at Vervins. The exorcist declared that she was truly possessed by the devil, and during the exorcisms he made the demon reveal his name, which was, rather predictably, Beelzebub. The friar based his diagnosis upon signs such as the rejection of sacred objects, abnormal strength, clairvoyance, and so on. Notwithstanding many people’s objections, the local ecclesiastical authorities considered Nicole’s possession authentic, and the girl was solemnly exorcised by the bishop of Laon. The day of her liberation from the demons, 8 February, continued to be celebrated annually with a special commemoration in the cathedral of Laon until the French Revolution.¹