What is The Malleus Maleficarum or Hammer of Witches as noted in the nonfiction book, Witches, Midwives, and Nurses?

The Malleus Maleficarum (commonly translated as Hammer of Witches) is a medieval guide to witch hunting. This document proves that witch hunts were not the result of spontaneous mass-hysteria but were rather "well-organized campaigns, initiated, financed, and executed by Church and State" (36). Since it was written by two reverends, this document also illustrates the powerful role of the Church in the organization and encouragement of medieval witch trials. This book outlines and defines witchcraft, while associating its "crimes" with female sexuality, devilry, and obstetrics.