Reading the Salem Witch Child: The Guilt of Innocent Blood

This book explores the role of children in the Salem witch trials through a critical theory approach, examining narratives of afflicted girls and accused children and analyzing later manuscripts and fictional rewritings to question assumptions about the child in history.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 233 pages
Publication date: 18 November 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This captivating book delves into the intricate and multifaceted narratives surrounding the role of children in the infamous Salem witch trials. Through a meticulous close reading of a wide array of sources, including court records, contemporary and historical documents, fiction, drama, and poetry, the author aims to unravel the complexities of childhood in 1692 New England and explore the profound impact of our adult investment in reading these narratives.

Kristina West employs a critical theory framework to delve into two interconnected themes: first, she seeks to understand the mindset of children in the historical context of 1692 New England, challenging our modern assumptions and perspectives. Secondly, she examines the often overlooked or marginalized narratives of the afflicted girls and the numerous accused children, shedding light on their experiences and the structural repetition of the trials in attempts to establish their guilt or innocence.

Furthermore, the book delves into later manuscripts and fictional rewritings of the trials, challenging the underlying assumptions about children in history and exploring why these narratives of Salem's children remain relevant in our contemporary world. By examining the trials through a child's lens, the author offers a fresh and insightful perspective, challenging our preconceived notions and illuminating the enduring significance of this historical chapter.

This captivating book is a must-read for anyone interested in history, social justice, and the complexities of childhood. It provides a profound exploration of the trials and their enduring impact on our understanding of history and society.

Weight: 341g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030493066
Edition number: 1st ed. 2020