Witchcraft in America is an illuminating anthology that encapsulates the multifaceted perceptions of witchcraft from the colonial era to the 19th century. The collection boasts a rich tapestry of texts that unfold a broad spectrum of literary styles, ranging from trial transcripts and sermons to reflective essays. Its diversity not only showcases the historical depth and transformation of American society's view on witchcraft but also underscores significant works that explore the socio-religious implications of witchcraft accusations and the ensuing trials. The anthology serves as a crucial confluence of historical narratives and personal accounts, reflecting the broader literary and cultural milieu of the times. The contributing authors, including noted historians and clergymen like Cotton Mather and Charles Wentworth Upham, bring a compelling mix of perspectives rooted in their distinct historical and cultural contexts. Collectively, their work aligns with several significant literary and cultural movements, offering a nuanced understanding of the intersections of religion, law, and community in shaping attitudes towards witchcraft. Their writings not only document historical events but also critically analyze the impact of witchcraft on American religious and social frameworks, challenging readers to reconsider popular narratives. Witchcraft in America serves as an essential volume for anyone invested in the deep, often troubling history of social norms and judicial practices surrounding witchcraft in American history. By bringing together seminal works that span several centuries, the anthology offers a unique educational journey through the shifting landscapes of American cultural and religious thought. Readers are encouraged not only to explore these diverse narratives but also to appreciate the dialogues that these texts foster about power, superstition, and the human condition.
Zusammenfassung
British Colonies on the east coast of North American continent had been settled by religious refugees seeking to build a pure, Bible-based society. They lived closely with the sense of the supernatural and they intended to build a society based on their religious beliefs. That is what caused numerous quarrels, troubles and accusations among which the witchcraft was quite common and the most dangerous. While witch trials had begun to fade out across much of Europe by the mid-17th century, they continued in the American Colonies. The earliest recorded witchcraft execution in America was in 1647 in Connecticut. The witch hunt in American Colonies culminated with the Salem Trials when over 200 people were accused, and 19 of whom were found guilty and executed by hanging. This collection contains books that depict the history of witchcraft and witch trials in the USA.Introduction:The Superstitions of Witchcraft by Howard WilliamsWitchcraft in America:The Wonders of the Invisible World by Cotton Mather and Increase MatherSalem Witchcraft by Charles Wentworth UphamSalem Witchcraft and Cotton Mather by Charles Wentworth UphamA Short History of the Salem Village Witchcraft Trials by M. V. B. PerleyAn Account of the Witchcraft Delusion at Salem in 1682 by James ThacherHouse of John Procter, Witchcraft Martyr, 1692 by William P. UphamThe Salem Witchcraft, the Planchette Mystery, and Modern Spiritualism by Samuel Roberts WellsThe Witchcraft Delusion in Colonial Connecticut (1647-1697) by John M. TaylorWitchcraft of New England Explained by Modern Spiritualism by Allen Putnam