Witchcraft and the Power of Ritual for Fat Activists

Witchcraft has long been associated with counterculture movements throughout history, and this connection continues to thrive in the present. In particular, the intersection of witchcraft and the fat counterculture has gained traction in recent years. The fat counterculture challenges societal norms and fatphobia by promoting body positivity, self-acceptance, and liberation from beauty standards. It emphasizes that all bodies are valuable and deserving of respect and love, regardless of their size. Witchcraft, on the other hand, is often seen as a spiritual practice that empowers individuals to harness their inner power and connect with nature. It encourages autonomy, self-expression, and a rejection of patriarchal systems.

As it is known, belief in supernatural travelers of female appearance and good inclination, visiting houses at night and being known as bonae res or “good things,” enjoys a rather rich written tradition in medieval literature. Both William of Auvergne’s (d. 1249) dominae nocturnae travelling in the train of a female figure whom he calls Lady Abundia and Satia, and the Dame Abonde of the late thirteenth-century Roman de la Rose show a clear link with the idea of prosperity. Stephen of Bourbon (d. 1261) as well as Vincent of Beauvais (d. 1264) link the “good women” to Diana (and Herodias) and the mulieres of the canon Episcopi , thus highlighting the interconnections between folkloric and literary domains. Such “good ladies,” potentially dangerous entities themselves, had more harmful counterparts in the vast array of sorcerers roaming around with them such as the estries mentioned in the Roman de la Rose , and especially those evil nightly entities known as striges or lamiae which can shapeshift and murder children.

Lamiae were modeled on the Lamia of the Greek mythology, the beautiful Lybian princess and former mistress of Zeus, who would later become a monster murdering young children. Within this context, folklore and classical culture emerged as the two primary domains from which the constitutive elements of beliefs in witchcraft will be taken and assembled.

It encourages autonomy, self-expression, and a rejection of patriarchal systems. The pairing of witchcraft and the fat counterculture creates a powerful synergy that challenges mainstream society's oppression of fat bodies. Both movements emphasize self-ownership and self-love, promoting the idea that everyone has the right to exist and be treated with dignity and respect.

Whitchcraft and the fat counterculture

Petersen, A. H. (2017). Too fat, too slutty, too loud: the rise and reign of the unruly woman. New York, NY, Plume.

Chicago / Turabian - Author Date Citation (style guide)

Petersen, Anne Helen. 2017. Too Fat, Too Slutty, Too Loud: The Rise and Reign of the Unruly Woman. New York, NY, Plume.

Chicago / Turabian - Humanities Citation (style guide)

Petersen, Anne Helen, Too Fat, Too Slutty, Too Loud: The Rise and Reign of the Unruly Woman. New York, NY, Plume, 2017.

Petersen, Anne Helen. Too Fat, Too Slutty, Too Loud: The Rise and Reign of the Unruly Woman. New York, NY, Plume, 2017.

Note! Citation formats are based on standards as of July 2022. Citations contain only title, author, edition, publisher, and year published. Citations should be used as a guideline and should be double checked for accuracy.

Notes

A popular BuzzFeed columnist examines the phenomenon of popular provocative womanhood to discuss the rise of such counterculture stars as Amy Schumer, Nicki Minaj, and Caitlyn Jenner, exploring why they are popular in spite of negative behaviors.

Record Information

MARC Record

In the fat counterculture, witchcraft offers therapeutic and empowering practices that help individuals heal and reclaim their bodies. Spells, rituals, and ceremonies become tools for self-empowerment and a means to connect with personal power. Through these practices, individuals can embrace their bodies and reject societal narratives that perpetuate shame and self-hatred. Additionally, witchcraft provides a community and support system for those within the fat counterculture. Covens, online groups, and gatherings serve as safe spaces where individuals can find acceptance, understanding, and solidarity. These spaces allow people to share experiences, offer guidance, and collectively challenge societal oppression. However, it is important to note that the connection between witchcraft and the fat counterculture is not exclusive or limited to any specific group of people. People of all sizes and backgrounds can find solace, empowerment, and community within these realms. In conclusion, witchcraft and the fat counterculture share common values of self-acceptance, empowerment, and liberation. Through this intersection, individuals can challenge societal norms, heal from internalized shame, and create a world that celebrates all bodies..

Reviews for "The Transformative Power of Fat Witchcraft"

1. Sarah - 1 star

I found "Witchcraft and the Fat Counterculture" to be incredibly disappointing. The author seemed to have a complete lack of understanding and respect for witchcraft and the fat acceptance movement. The book mainly consisted of stereotypes and shallow judgments, without delving into the deep complexities and histories of these subjects. It felt like a missed opportunity to shed light on important issues and foster understanding. I do not recommend this book to anyone looking for a thoughtful exploration of witchcraft or fat acceptance.

2. Mark - 2 stars

I had high hopes for "Witchcraft and the Fat Counterculture," but ultimately found it lacking in substance. The book seemed more focused on pushing a personal opinion than providing a well-researched and balanced perspective. The author lacks nuance and fails to address the intersectionality within both witchcraft and the fat acceptance movement. I was left feeling unsatisfied and wanting more in-depth analysis. I would advise others to approach this book with caution, as it may not live up to their expectations.

3. Emily - 2 stars

"Witchcraft and the Fat Counterculture" was not what I was expecting at all. The author seemed to have a bias against both witchcraft and the fat acceptance movement, leading to a skewed perspective throughout the book. There was a lack of nuance and a failure to explore the complexities and diversity within these subjects. It felt more like a personal rant rather than an objective exploration. I was left feeling frustrated and disappointed. I would not recommend this book to anyone looking for a fair and well-rounded examination of witchcraft or fat acceptance.

Witchcraft and the Reclamation of Fat Bodies