Speak of the Devil with Richard Raiswell

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Explore the fascinating evolution of the concept of Satan in Western civilization with medieval devil lore expert Dr. Richard Raiswell from the University of Prince Edward Island. Dr. Raiswell reveals how our modern understanding of the devil emerged not only from biblical texts, but through centuries of popular belief and cultural transformation.

Discover why the devil has endured, reflecting society’s deepest fears across eras – from ancient monasticism to witch hunts, Cold War politics, and contemporary debates. This episode challenges common misconceptions about the devil’s biblical origins while tracing his powerful influence on Western thought, religion, and culture.

Keywords: devil, Satan, medieval history, theology, Western culture, witch hunts, Richard Raiswell, religious history, demonology, Christian theology