Emmanuel Le Roy Ladurie (1929–2023)

In "Jasmin's Witch," Ladurie takes on the unique project of tracing the lineage of Jacque Boé's work, "Francouneto." It is the story of a beautiful young woman who is admired by all, but through vanity and jealousy, becomes accused of being a witch. While you won't find it in the court record, Ladurie argues for it's validity. He excitedly refers to it as "unadulterated development of a peasant tradition," a micro-cosmic history completely untainted by outside influence, demonology and witch judges. It is perfectly Gascon.

First, Ladurie cross-references it with two other regional cases, that of the Mimalé family and of Marie de Sansarric for comparison. To prove that Francouneto's finer details have a basis in reality. All 3 of these Gascon witches have elements of 1) counter-magic 2) a theme of odor 3) the evil eye 4) werewolves. Fun fact, an animalistic transformation, especially werewolves, and a suspiciously, strange scent (good or foul) are telling of French witchcraft. It's fascinating! Second, Ladurie uses proper names and events mentioned in the story, including "the Buscou festival" "Huguenot" and "pilgrimage to Bon-Encontre" to solve Francouneto's chronology. 1620-1700! He also uses parish registries to trace the family of her lover. By the end, he narrows it down to a possible Marie Sordés as THE "Francouneto." It's really impressive!! And all done in 1983, without the use of ancestry.com or Google. Just good old-fashioned research techniques!

It's a little round-about at times, but Ladurie proves that careful examination can reveal incredible clues. It's like reading a puzzle being put together! What's more, you can read the whole tale for yourself. Ladurie was kind enough to include it.… (mer)