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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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Salem Possessed by Paul S. Boyer and Stephen Nissenbaum is an academic work focusing on the social origins of the Salem witch trials in Salem Village from the 1640s to the early eighteenth century, emphasizing the period from autumn 1691 through summer 1692. The authors argue that Salem Village's unique religious, economic, and demographic characteristics fostered a community split between traditional agriculturalists and emerging commercial interests, leading to the witch hysteria that resulted in the execution of twenty people.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Paul S. Boyer's Salem Possessed is widely praised for its insightful social and economic analysis of the Salem witch trials. Critics commend its thorough research and detailed narrative. Some find its academic tone dense, potentially challenging for general readers. Nonetheless, it is esteemed for its significant contribution to understanding historical context and communal dynamics in early America.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Salem Possessed?

A reader who would enjoy Paul S. Boyer's Salem Possessed is likely fascinated by American history, particularly the social and cultural dynamics of the Salem witch trials. They would appreciate the nuanced examination of historical events, much like fans of Nathaniel Hawthorne's The Scarlet Letter or Stacy Schiff's The Witches.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Book Details

Topics

Sociology

History: U.S.

Anthropology

Genre

Science-Fiction / Dystopian Fiction

Anthropology