The Loudun Possessions

The Loudun Possessions of 1632-1637 were among the most famous possession cases in history. An entire convent of Ursuline nuns claimed to be possessed by demons sent by Father Urbain Grandier, who was eventually burned at the stake.

The Beginning

In 1632, Sister Jeanne des Anges, the Mother Superior of the Ursuline convent, claimed to be possessed by demons. Soon, other nuns displayed possession symptoms: convulsions, obscene outbursts, contortions, and speaking in unknown languages.

The Accusations

The nuns accused Father Urbain Grandier of sending demons to possess them. Grandier was a controversial figure: handsome, arrogant, and rumored to have had affairs. He had made powerful enemies who saw an opportunity.

The Exorcisms

Public exorcisms were performed before large crowds. The nuns’ displays became theatrical, with levitation, blasphemy, and revelations of Grandier’s alleged crimes. The exorcisms attracted international attention.

The Execution

Despite weak evidence, Grandier was convicted of witchcraft. On August 18, 1634, he was tortured and burned alive. He never confessed, maintaining his innocence to the end.

The Aftermath

After Grandier’s death, the possessions continued for years. Father Jean-Joseph Surin, an exorcist, himself claimed to become possessed. The nuns gradually recovered, with some later expressing doubt about what had happened.

Assessment

The Loudun case may have been mass hysteria, political murder, or genuine possession. The involvement of Cardinal Richelieu and other powerful figures suggests political motivation. The case remains one of history’s most troubling witch trials.