33 pages 1 hour read

Paul S. Boyer

Salem Possessed: The Social Origins of Witchcraft

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1974

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Essay Topics

1.

Discuss the geography of Salem Village. How did its characteristics play into the conflict among its residents? 

2.

Samuel Parris had a career before he became pastor of the Village church. How did his past impact his behavior as a spiritual leader? 

3.

What sort of evidence was admitted in the witch trials? Why is witchcraft a difficult charge to prove legally?