Witches were mentally disturbed and required medical, not theological treatment. This statement was given by:
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → Johann Weyer
In the Renaissance period, Johann Weyer emphasised psychological conflict and disturbed interpersonal relationships as causes of psychological disorders. He also insisted that ‘witches’ were mentally disturbed and required medical, not theological, treatment.
NCERT (2025-26): “Historical Background … In the Middle Ages, demonology and superstition gained renewed importance in the explanation of abnormal behaviour. Demonology related to a belief that people with mental problems were evil and there are numerous instances of ‘witch-hunts’ during this period. During the early Middle Ages, the Christian spirit of charity prevailed and St. Augustine wrote extensively about feelings, mental anguish and conflict. This laid the groundwork for modern psychodynamic theories of abnormal behaviour. The Renaissance Period was marked by increased humanism and curiosity about behaviour. Johann Weyer emphasised psychological conflict and disturbed interpersonal relationships as causes of psychological disorders. He also insisted that ‘witches’ were mentally disturbed and required medical, not theological, treatment.…” |