Final answer:
In ancient Roman times, individuals accused of treason and dabbling in magic were often seen as less Roman than others and could be accused of witchcraft. Accusing someone of witchcraft was a serious charge, as it implied the accused had mysterious and divine powers that were difficult to guard against.
Step-by-step explanation:
In ancient Roman times, individuals accused of treason and dabbling in magic were often seen as less Roman than others and could be accused of witchcraft. Pliny the Elder tells a story about an accused individual named Chresimus, who was a freedman and likely of Greek origin. Accusing someone of witchcraft was a serious charge, as it implied the accused had mysterious and divine powers that were difficult to guard against. However, it is important to note that accusations of witchcraft were not limited to ancient Rome and could be found in other historical contexts as well, such as the Salem Witch Trials in Massachusetts.