Predating the Salem Witch Trials by over a hundred years, werewolf hysteria was rampant throughout Europe from the late 16th century into the 17th century. Thousands were persecuted as lupine monstrosities, but they were far from being victims of an ancient curse as seen in The Wolf Man. Back then, rye was a food staple amongst the lower castes of society, of which was susceptible to a fungus called ergot. Its effects included blistering skin, an inability to speak, an increased appetite, delusions, and violent hallucinations. Oftentimes the afflicted themselves believed they were a werewolf, going as far as to violently devour infants and small children.
