Unlike the dry legal text of the Malleus , the Compendium reads like a macabre travelogue. It attempts to scientifically (for the 17th century) classify demons. For example, it explains why some demons prefer storms and others prefer domestic chaos.
Explores the "pacts" witches make with the Devil. It details the eleven ceremonies allegedly required to join a Sabbath, including the formal renunciation of the Christian faith and the vow of allegiance to Satan. compendium maleficarum pdf
: Often has scanned versions of the original Latin texts or early academic reprints. Unlike the dry legal text of the Malleus
The million-dollar question. In the 17th century, owning the Compendium Maleficarum could get you burned at the stake. The Catholic Church placed it on the Index Librorum Prohibitorum (List of Prohibited Books) because, while it argued against witchcraft, it described the rituals in too graphic detail (fearing readers would learn how to summon demons from its pages). Explores the "pacts" witches make with the Devil
Guazzo begins by defining the hierarchy of Hell. He uses the works of earlier demonologists like Bodin and Remy to classify demons by their sins. He then transitions to the witch herself: her initiation, the renunciation of baptism, and the branding by the Devil. This section includes the infamous "Witch’s Mark" (a numb spot where the Devil drew blood).