The character of the witch has always been a symbolic one. She is either a sly, malformed villain or a dangerously seductive woman with special powers. The witch embodies fear, not only on account of her mysterious powers, but also because she symbolises powerful womanhood, freed from male control. Indeed, throughout history, the witch's character has reflected patriarchal narratives about female power, making it one of the most powerful feminist symbols of all time.<sup>1</sup><br><br>From folklore to the burning at the stake in the Spanish Inquisition, this symbol of strong femininity is ever present, evolving to represent the female stereotypes of each period.<sup>2</sup> The witch trials of Salem (1692-93) influenced the arts as well as discussions of how women, especially those on the margins of society, have been persecuted under the guise of witchcraft.<br><br>In popular culture, since the witch occupies a place next to vampires and zombies, she has been rendered as a vehicle for new ideas and progressive messages, similar to the other heroes of this category. J K Rowling uses the character of Hermione Granger to portray a smart, dynamic and decisive girl, a totally contrary narrative to the classical witch, promoting a higher status for women in modern society. Born to <em>muggle</em> (ie non-wizard) parents, but being, however, the best student, Hermione's character also deals with stereotypes of race and class.<br><br>It is clear, therefore, that through their long evolution, despite an adverse historical narrative, witches have finally emerged as a potent symbol of feminism.<br>