Wiccan

Wiccan commonly refers to a practitioner of Wicca, a modern Pagan religious movement that emerged in the mid-20th century. Wicca encompasses a variety of traditions and beliefs, but many adherents share a reverence for nature and a duotheistic or polytheistic framework centered on a Goddess and a God. Wiccan practice often includes ritual spellcraft, seasonal celebrations, and a code of ethics. A commonly cited guideline is the Wiccan Rede, often summarized as “An it harm none, do what ye will.” Practices can include rites, meditation, herbalism, and the forging of personal spiritual paths, with covens or solitary practitioners.

Origins and diversity of practice are varied within Wicca. Modern Wicca traces to Britain in the 1950s, popularized by Gerald Gardner and influenced by earlier ceremonial magic and folk traditions. Since then, numerous traditions have developed, including Gardnerian and Alexandrian lines, as well as eclectic paths that blend elements from different sources. Many Wiccans celebrate eight seasonal Sabbats linked to the solar year and perform Esbats aligned with the lunar cycle. Ethical emphasis on personal responsibility, consent, and harm-minimization is commonly emphasized, though beliefs and practices differ among individuals and groups.

Wiccan in fiction refers to a Marvel Comics character named Wiccan. In the comics, Wiccan is the codename of Billy Kaplan, a member of the Young Avengers. Created by Allan Heinberg and Jim Cheung, he first appeared in 2005. Wiccan uses magic and is portrayed as a powerful magic-user, with storylines that position him as a prominent LGBTQ superhero within Marvel’s universe.