ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Medieval European magic

Medieval European magic was a belief system where people thought that certain spells and incantations could bring about changes in reality. It was a time when people believed in many supernatural things and often turned to magic to try and control the world around them.

People believed that certain objects had magical properties, like gemstones or herbs. They believed that witches, who were often women accused of practicing magic, had access to dark powers that could control people's thoughts and actions. Some people believed that magical creatures such as dragons, unicorns and griffins were real.

People in medieval times would often seek help from those they believed had magical powers, like cunning folk who were often healers, herbalists and wise people. Often, magic was used to try and cure diseases and other ailments.

However, belief in magic was often met with suspicion and even persecution. The Church believed that magic was the work of the devil, and anyone suspected of practicing magic was often accused of heresy and put on trial.

So, while magical beliefs were common in medieval Europe, they were often met with fear and distrust. In today's world, most people do not believe in magic in the same way that people of the past did.