Maria Østerby Elleby is a Danish historian with a PhD in the late witch trials from the University of Southern Denmark, working as a public outreach curator at Rudersdal Museer. She researches the history of witch persecution and has written several books on the subject, including the popular-science title "Bål og brand: Heksejagt i Danmark", and was one of the historians behind HEX! Museum of Witch Hunt in Ribe. She also co-hosts the podcast "Trolddom" and lectures widely on what the witch trials reveal about society - then and now.
Maria Østerby Elleby publishes two new books in 2026: "The Satan's Tumult - witch hunt in the Supreme Court" and "Fire and Flames".
Elleby gives a lecture on "Fire and Flames" at Øbro Jagtvej Library in Copenhagen on October 21, 2026.
Elleby performs at Musikhuset Aarhus on February 10, 2027 as part of an ongoing lecture tour.
Elleby gave a lecture on Nordic and European witch hunts at Åby Library in Aarhus on September 16, 2025.
Elleby participated in a podcast episode about witchcraft and magic in connection with the children's literature festival "We Love Books" in Copenhagen.
Witchcraft historian Maria Østerby Elleby explores the witch hunts of Europe and Denmark from the 1500s-1600s, examining the feared beliefs that lay behind the accusations.
A cultural evening at Birkerød Library featuring children's puppet-making and theatre, adult lectures and reading groups, plus activities from local associations.
Historian Maria Østerby Elleby explores witchcraft trials from the 16th and 17th centuries, asking how the image of the witch as monster became powerful enough to justify 60,000 executions across Europe.
Interactive day for children based on the TV series Valdras Heroes, featuring a meet-and-greet with actress Maria Østerby Elleby, a workshop to build your own hero, and a treasure hunt in the library garden.
A full day at Køge Library exploring the witch through history, art, and nature, featuring workshops, a lecture on local witch trials, communal dining, and a ritual concert.
Maria Østerby Elleby presents a lecture on Køge's historical witches as part of the all-day event 'Witch in the Heart'.
Author and historian Maria Østerby Elleby discusses witch hunts in Denmark, drawing on real cases from West Zealand - a dark history of fear, curses, and religious belief.
Historian Maria Østerby Elleby explores the witch hunts of 17th-century Denmark, where over a thousand people were convicted and executed. Part of Copenhagen Public Library's science festival.