Possession of Barbe Hallay

In her captivating book, Possession of Barbe Hallay, author Mairi Cowan delves into a chilling historical event that unfolded in Québec in 1660. As ominous signs filled the sky, fear gripped the community, leading to the harrowing tale of Barbe Hallay, a teenage servant who began exhibiting signs of possession. This unsettling incident escalated when a local miller was accused of witchcraft and ultimately executed for allegedly tormenting her through dark arts. Through meticulous research, Cowan unravels this case of demonic infestation, providing readers with a profound understanding of the everyday experiences and deep-seated anxieties faced by the people of New France. Published by McGill-Queen's University Press in 2022, this paperback edition spans 300 pages and invites readers to explore the intersection of fear, superstition, and societal dynamics in a turbulent time. Discover the haunting narrative that sheds light on a pivotal moment in Canadian history.