Witchcraft

Shakespeare wrote Macbeth as a tribute to King James I and in order to win his favour he included things that James I was interested in. James I believed that witches were capable of casting spells and harming people and saw himself as a target of their malevolence. 

King James I belief in witches led to his active involvement in witch hunts, particularly in Scotland. 

Demonology was a book written by King James I which explored and encouraged the detection and punishment of witches. Under James I suspected witches were often tortured, imprisoned and then hanged. 

Demonology

An 'ology' is the study of, so demonology is the study of demons.

Personal Trauma

James I associated the death of his mother, Mary Queen of Scots, with dark, satanic forces, believing it had been foretold by witches. The trauma fuelled his fascination with and fear of witchcraft.

Threat to the Crown

Witches, James I believed, were a potential threat to his authority and the stability of his kingdom. He believed that they could be used by his enemies to harm him or his family.

Influence on Macbeth

Shakespeare's play 'Macbeth' reflects King James I's obsession with witchcraft, with the witches in the play mirroring the King's belief and writings.