Like Minds

To the Editors:

I am certainly grateful for Dr. Rosen’s correction of my incorrect recollection. I originally cited Dr. Rosen’s study as evidence that the psychopathological elements in the witchcraft epidemics had been known and discussed at a time which antedated by several years the publication of the works originally reviewed by Professor [Lawrence] Stone [NYR, December 2, 1971]. Following Dr. Rosen’s correction, it appeared seven years before Trevor-Roper’s study. I should have commented, however, that, despite its independent origins, Trevor-Roper’s interpretation of the witchcraft craze is remarkably similar in many respects to Dr. Rosen’s account.

It only remains to say that I trust Dr. Rosen continues to think that his discussion of witchcraft and psychopathology in its collective and individual forms is still relevant to understanding witchcraft epidemics in Western societies.

Toby E. Huff

Department of Sociology

Southeastern Massachusetts University

North Dartmouth, Massachusetts

H.R Trevor-Roper replies:

I do not know either Rosen or Huff and I have not read anything by either of them. Rosen is therefore quite right in supposing that I have not read his article in the Journal of Health and Human Behavior, 1960. No doubt, I ought to have. I am quite sure that Rosen and I have written independently of each other. This, after all, often happens.