There are many differences between a modern witch and folkloric witch but the biggest is how they are viewed. Now looked at by most as a harmless gathering of people who worship differently, witches were once a feared unknown and persecuted. Even the Bible reads: Thou shall not suffer a witch to live… Witches in the past, be they real, pretend, or framed, were hunted and slaughtered, most burning or drowned with no regard to the truth. Now, when someone says they are a witch, it evokes little response. That is the biggest of differences between a modern witch and a folkloric witch. Here are some others.

Witches in folklore were always horrid old hags bent on doing evil to innocent, God fearing people. Now, witches are usually portrayed as good, as healers even, and some of them are the most exotic creatures one can imagine. A modern witch is beautiful. It is a long way from the witch of Snow White’s nightmare.

A modern witch is usually open about her religious preferences and is tolerated quite well. In folklore, witches were normal people by day who turned with the fall of darkness or ugly beings who hid inside dank, dark places while planning their mischief. What was once secret has become recognized as a legitimate religion.

Another of the many differences between a modern witch and a folkloric witch is the clothes and sense of self, as relates to looks. In lore, a witch wore raggedy black robes with a tall black hat and pointed shoes. Most of her features were concealed. A modern witch dresses sexily to celebrate her new beauty. She wears work clothes as well as casual, in many colors, and she is often eager to be seen baring scandalous amounts of her firm body for the world to see. A folkloric witch was so deformed, she hid herself under the black veils of mourning, too disfigured to be gazed upon.

Yet another difference is the availability of products. You can actually order potions, spells, and charms online now. You can subscribe to Witch newsletters and magazines or join groups to find others. Technology has made it possible for people, Witches, to connect and find not only each other, but the items they need to practice their religion.

Witches in folklore were almost always women. Now, anyone can be a witch. Equality for the new century? Maybe. These are just some of the many differences between a modern witch and a folkloric witch.