Protection of Сhildren from Harmful Magic and an Evil Eye in Ancient Rome

A widespread belief in the intervention of supernatural forces in human life, including their ability to harm children, persisted in Ancient Rome and ancient world in general. There was a concept of witches and demonic creatures, which abducted and killed infants, as well as people believed to possess the “evil eye” capable of harming a child. The article examines practices used by the Romans to protect children from harmful magic and an evil eye, like the use of various body amulets and plants attributed with apotropaic properties, protection of space through ritual actions and more.