The Aix-en-Provence Possession

The Aix-en-Provence possession of Madeleine de Demandolx introduced a terrifying legal precedent: a priest was burned as a witch based on testimony extracted from a demon during exorcism. The case influenced witch trials across Europe.

The Possessed

Madeleine de Demandolx was a young nun who began experiencing possession symptoms in 1609. Under exorcism, she named Father Louis Gaufridi, a popular priest, as the source of her affliction.

The Accusations

During exorcisms, the demons inhabiting Madeleine described Gaufridi’s alleged witchcraft in detail. He had seduced her, they said, and introduced her to Satan. The demons provided testimony that was treated as legally valid.

The Trial

Father Gaufridi was arrested and tortured. Under torture, he confessed to witchcraft and signing a pact with the Devil. He recanted the confession but was convicted based on the demons’ testimony as well as his own.

The Execution

On April 30, 1611, Louis Gaufridi was burned alive at Aix-en-Provence. His execution established the precedent that demon testimony, extracted during exorcism, could be used in court. This would influence trials for decades.

Madeleine’s Fate

Madeleine recovered from her possession but later fell under suspicion herself. She was eventually convicted of witchcraft and imprisoned. She spent years in prison before dying in obscurity.

Assessment

The Aix-en-Provence case represents a dark moment in the intersection of religion and law. Using demonic testimony as legal evidence opened the door to extraordinary abuses. The precedent cost countless lives in subsequent witch trials.