Join special guest Steven Veerapen for a fascinating talk about James VI and Witchcraft of the late 1500's

In this talk, Steven Veerapen explores how Scotland's best-educated and most erudite sovereign became engrossed in the topic of witchcraft. He traces the birth of that obsession and the terrifying series of trials and persecutions it sparked. In doing so, audiences will be invited to consider what made a 'witch', what made a witch-hunter, and why this unusual and impossible crime captured imaginations in Scotland, England, and America - and led to thousands of innocent people being tortured and executed.

Please note that the talk will be followed by a short Q&A and book signing of Steven's new book "Overlord: The Life and Reign of Henry VIII" which is due for publication in August. Please also bring along your own copies of Steven's books for signing- there may be copies of 'Witches' for sale on the night.

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Steven Veerapen holds a First-Class Honours degree and an MLitt with Distinction in Renaissance Studies from the University of Strathclyde, where he also completed his PhD on slander and sedition in Elizabethan law and literature. His research focuses on early modern reputation, libel, and Anglo‑Scottish relations around the Union of the Crowns. His forthcoming academic work will be on cultural depictions of James VI and I.

Alongside his scholarship, Steven is a successful author of popular history and historical fiction. His nonfiction includes works on James VI and I, and the Anglo-Imperial designs of Henry VIII. He has published multiple historical novel trilogies and a standalone novel on Henry, Lord Darnley. His next full-length history will be a major biography of Elizabeth I with a focus on her imperial British vision.

Doors open at 6.30pm.

The lecture will conclude with time for a short Q&A session.

Please be aware that the Chapel is only accessible up one flight of spiral stairs.

Assistance Dogs only

Description supplied by the event organiser.