=chapter 3: witches and demons= in this chapter, broedel delves deeply into the malleus's portrayal of the relationship between witches and demons. demons were not only the intermediaries through which witches gained their powers but also their masters. witches were depicted as being entirely subservient to these demons, often through sexual submission or ritualistic service. > "for kramer and sprenger, witches do not simply interact with demons; they are enslaved by them, bound to carry out their will." (broedel, p. 61). the sexual aspect of the relationship between witches and demons was central to the malleuss construction of witchcraft. kramer and sprenger argued that witches engaged in carnal relations with demons, and this union was both literal and symbolic. demons, particularly in the form of incubi, were said to have regular intercourse with witches, further deepening the witchs corruption and reinforcing her bond to the devil. > "witches 'copulate with demons' because their lust drives them to seek out such abominable unions, thus further perverting their bodies and souls." (broedel, p. 64, quoting malleus). broedel also notes that the malleus used the demonic relationship to explain how witches gained their supernatural powers, such as flight, weather manipulation, and the ability to curse others.
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