Homonym: 마녀 사냥 (Persecution)
"마녀 사냥" refers to the historical practice of hunting and persecuting individuals accused of witchcraft. This phenomenon peaked in Europe and colonial America between the 15th and 18th centuries, driven by fear, superstition, and social tensions. Many accused were subjected to trials, often based on flimsy evidence, leading to severe punishments, including execution.
The most infamous events of 마녀 사냥 include the 살렘 마녀 재판 in 1692, where several people were executed based on accusations of witchcraft. These events highlight the dangers of mass hysteria and the consequences of scapegoating vulnerable individuals in society.