The Greatest True Crime Stories Ever Told
Episode: The Real Witches of MacBeth
Host: Mary Kay McBrayer
Release Date: May 6, 2025

Introduction

In the gripping episode titled "The Real Witches of MacBeth," hosted by true crime writer Mary Kay McBrayer, listeners are transported to the dark and mysterious Scottish Highlands to uncover the true story behind the infamous witches portrayed in William Shakespeare's Macbeth. McBrayer delves deep into historical records, folklore, and her personal research to shed light on the real-life counterparts of these legendary figures.

Mary Kay McBrayer [02:12]: "When Shakespeare went to Scotland and heard this story, he definitely heard it from people who believed that."

Historical Context

McBrayer begins by setting the stage in the 10th century Scotland, a time when belief in witchcraft and supernatural beings was a societal norm. She emphasizes that witchcraft was not merely a mythical concept but a tangible reality for the people of that era.

Mary Kay McBrayer [15:45]: "Witchcraft was real. That was never a consideration. The trials were to determine whether you had committed witchcraft."

This firmly establishes the backdrop against which King Duff ruled and the subsequent witch trials that would shape the narrative of Macbeth.

King Duff and the Witch Hunts

Central to the episode is the figure of King Duff, the ruler of the Scots from 962 to 967. McBrayer explores King Duff's reign, highlighting his inheritance of the throne following his father's death in battle against Viking invaders. The historical King Duff differed significantly from Shakespeare's portrayal, being a respected monarch until his untimely illness.

Mary Kay McBrayer [14:47]: "I do remember learning that King Macbeth was a real person. Or at least that character was loosely based on the folklore of a Scottish king from the Dark Ages."

King Duff's mysterious sickness led him to believe that witchcraft was to blame, setting the stage for the arrest and eventual execution of three women accused of witchcraft and attempted assassination.

Execution of the Witches

The heart of the episode revolves around the brutal execution of the accused witches. McBrayer provides a harrowing account of their capture, torture, and demise. The women were found near Fares, engaged in a ritualistic act of melting a wax effigy of the king—a clear indication of their supposed malevolent intentions.

Mary Kay McBrayer [18:30]: "Each woman was forced into a herring barrel... and they did it with nails that were far too long for their purpose. Essentially, they created an iron maiden inside each barrel."

The execution was particularly gruesome, involving the burning of the women inside barrel contraptions, leading to their complete dismemberment. This act wasn't just a punishment but served as a grim warning to others who might dare to challenge the crown.

Aftermath and Lore of the Boulders

Post-execution, the episode transitions to the lingering legends surrounding the physical sites of the atrocities. McBrayer discusses three significant boulders that mark the locations where the witches met their fate. Each boulder holds its own story, with one remaining untouched, another partly destroyed, and the third forever split yet preserved.

Mary Kay McBrayer [29:10]: "One of them disappeared. The second of them seems to have never been moved... The third boulder rests half in Victoria Road in Fares."

These monuments not only serve as historical markers but also as cultural touchstones that continue to evoke awe and fear, reinforcing the pervasive belief in witchcraft that once dominated Scottish society.

Conclusion

In wrapping up the episode, McBrayer reflects on the intersection of history, myth, and true crime. She underscores the importance of understanding the real events that inspired Shakespeare's work, highlighting how societal fears and superstitions of the past can shape enduring legends.

Mary Kay McBrayer [32:50]: "What our story illustrates is how intertwined society, justice, and the human psyche are, especially when influenced by fear and misunderstanding."

She invites listeners to explore further, encouraging engagement and discussion for those who seek a deeper understanding of this dark chapter in history.

Notable Quotes

• Mary Kay McBrayer [02:12]: "The trope of Three Witches is ubiquitous throughout history and popular culture... Shakespeare's weird sisters just happen to be the most iconic, or at least my personal favorite, trio of magical women."

• Mary Kay McBrayer [15:45]: "The trials were not to determine whether witchcraft was real. Witchcraft was real."

• Mary Kay McBrayer [18:30]: "Each woman was forced into a herring barrel... Essentially, they created an iron maiden inside each barrel."

• Mary Kay McBrayer [29:10]: "The stones were not disturbed by its paving. There's actually a retaining wall over this marker."

• Mary Kay McBrayer [32:50]: "How intertwined society, justice, and the human psyche are, especially when influenced by fear and misunderstanding."

About the Host: Mary Kay McBrayer

Mary Kay McBrayer is a renowned true crime author and podcaster, known for her meticulous research and engaging storytelling. Her previous work includes the acclaimed book Madame: The Life and Crimes of Harlem's Underground Racketeer Stephanie Sinclair. McBrayer combines historical analysis with narrative flair, offering listeners and readers alike a profound exploration of true crime stories that have shaped our understanding of justice and human behavior.

Connect with Mary Kay McBrayer:

• Instagram: @arykaymcbrayer
• Book Pre-Order Link: Available in the show's notes.

The Greatest True Crime Stories Ever Told is a production of Diversion Audio, with theme music by Tyler Cash and executive production by Scott Waxman. For more episodes and detailed explorations into true crime, tune into Mary Kay McBrayer's series available on all major podcast platforms.