Grička vještica I-VII

The Witch of Grič by Marija Jurić Zagorka is a cycle of seven historical novels set in 18th-century Zagreb and Vienna, which combines love stories, political intrigue, and the theme of witch persecution.

The cycle The Witch of Grič consists of the novels: The Secret of the Bloody Bridge, The Countess of Nero, Malleus maleficarum, The Rival of Maria Theresa I and II, The Court Camarilla and The Rebel on the Throne. The plot follows Nera Keglević, a noble and courageous girl, and her beloved Siniša, who fight against injustice, superstition and the persecution of witches during the time of Maria Theresa. Zagorka skillfully interweaves real historical events, such as Maria Theresa's reforms, the war with the Turks and the abolition of the persecution of witches, with fiction, creating a tense story of love, courage and the fight for justice. Through Nera's fight against discrimination against women, Zagorka emphasizes feminist themes, while the panorama of Croatian society reveals class stratification and political turmoil. The novel is written on the basis of archival documents, including court records of witch persecutions, such as the case of Barica Cindek, which gives the work authenticity. Zagorka subtly criticizes Magyarization and Austrian rule, promoting Croatian identity. The cycle has become a cult work of Croatian literature, known for its vivid characters, intricate plot, and universal themes of justice and freedom.