Cats have a long and complicated history intertwined with human culture, dating back to ancient Egypt and Greek mythology.
In certain civilizations, cats were venerated as celestial emblems, while in others, they were connected with mysticism and witchcraft.
The belief that black cats bring ill luck dates back to the 13th century when Pope Gregory IX issued a decree declaring black cats to be Satan's embodiment, as per History.com.
This was the start of church-sanctioned witch hunts and inquisitions, which swiftly expanded throughout Europe.
Witches, cats, and the church The church's dread of witches and their association with cats emerged in medieval Europe. Witches, who were pre-Christian pagan practitioners, challenged the church's authority.
They had a strong appreciation for the natural world, particularly animals, and their fondness for cats grew questionable. Both cats and independent women exhibited a healthy disdain for authority, something the church did not condone.
This resulted in the elderly lady and her cats being demonized, further connecting black cats with the notion of witchcraft.