In the late 17th century, amidst the turbulent backdrop of the Scottish Highlands, More Roy found herself at the heart of a grim chapter of history. Residing in Moidart, Inverness, More was one of many individuals caught in the web of witchcraft accusations that swept through Scotland between 1563 and 1736. Despite the scarcity of detailed records regarding the specific accusations or the nature of her trial, the mere commencement of the case—filed under the cryptic designation C/JO/2864 on September 30, 1669—illuminates the pervasive climate of fear and suspicion during this era.
Though the trial documentation (catalogued as T/JO/647) offers no further details on the proceedings or the outcome, More's experience exemplifies the precarious position of many women during these witch hunts. In the shadowy corridors of Scottish justice of the time, records frequently lacked comprehensive narratives, reflecting both the hasty manner in which these trials were conducted and the marginalized position of the accused individuals. By the sheer fact of her accusation, More was likely subjected to the intense social stigma and personal turmoil that accompanied such charges, which could irrevocably alter the course of a life.
While the specifics of More's fate remain obscured, her story is a poignant reminder of the period's societal dynamics, with hysteria often fueling legal actions. These witch trials not only disrupted communities but also left a lasting imprint on Scottish history, shaping how subsequent generations understood justice, fear, and human behavior under duress. More Roy serves as a representative figure among the many whose lives were touched by the witchcraft persecutions, reminding us of the enduring human cost of such events.