The Salem witch trials stand as one of the infamous moments in colonial American history. More than 150 people -- primarily women -- from 24 communities were charged with witchcraft; 19 were hanged and others died in prison. In his introduction to this compact yet comprehensive volume; Richard Godbeer explores the beliefs; fears; and historical context that fueled the witch panic of 1692. The documents in this collection illuminate how the Puritans' worldview led them to seek a supernatural explanation for the problems vexing their community. Presented as case studies; the carefully chosen records from several specific trials offer a clear picture of the gender norms and social tensions that underlie the witchcraft accusations. The final documents cover recantations of confessions; the aftermath of the witch hunt; and statements of regret. A chronology of the witchcraft crisis; questions for consideration; and a selected bibliography round out the book's pedagogical support.
#91805 in Books Picador USA 2003-10-17 2003-10-17Ingredients: Example IngredientsOriginal language:EnglishPDF # 1 .36 x 1.34 x 6.22l; 1.68 #File Name: 0312421958768 pagesPicador USA
Review
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Cultural perspective through a looking glass.By Nashville CapitalistCare to understand the world at large; then it means revisiting the past. Easy to forget world history from college. Natasha's Dance is an enjoyable read told in a story format that ends in the 60's. Bought the book and am interested in learning more.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Indispensable Companion to Tolstoy's War and PeaceBy omnishamblesWhether you are a first time reader of War and Peace or returning to it; this book by Orlando Figes will make a dramatic difference in what you will get out of that classic (and no doubt other classics of Russian literature.) Not only is it a fast paced and utterly absorbing history Russia but Figes specifically follows the fortunes of the Volkonsky dynasty; key figures of whom form the basis of the fictional Bolkonskys (father Count Nikolay and Prince Andrei). The chapter 'Children of 1812' is a dazzling account of the period that shapes the characters and fortunes of the young men like Pierre; Andrei; Nikolai and Dolokhov of War and Peace. The book is a very fast 600 pages (excluding notes etc) and very well worth the investment. If nothing; read the chapter "Children of 1812" and those Free Masonry and War sections will be as compelling to you as they were to the original Russian readers. And you will understand why Speransky's "precise; mirthless laughter rang in Prince Andrei's ears long after he had left the house."0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. I Caught Myself Giggling and Enjoying This BookBy CpronzatoI really enjoyed this book. You can tell how knowledgeable the author is in regards to this book. It covers a wide range of topics. It is not a boring read and I caught myself giggling a few times. It is a book that keeps you reading it.You come away feeling knowledgeable and understanding what you have read. Also; the author of this book is a good friend of my professor's and very glad he made us read this book! It really was great.
