What happened when William Harvey examined women accused of witchcraft in 1634?

In 1634, William Harvey was tasked with examining four women accused of witchcraft. During an era when belief in witches was widespread and denying their existence could be considered heresy, it was common for any unusual physical mark or behavior to be interpreted as definitive proof of supernatural activity.1

It is to Harvey’s credit that he approached the examination with an open mind, prioritizing scientific inquiry over superstition. By seeking rational, medical explanations for the evidence presented, he helped ensure that the accused women were ultimately found to be innocent.1