Witchcraft in America - The History & the Myth

Charles Wentworth Upham · Howard Williams · Increase Mather · Cotton Mather · Allen Putnam · Frederick George Lee · James Thacher · M. V. B. Perley · John M. Taylor · William P. Upham · M. Schele de Vere · Samuel Roberts Wells

Nov 2022 · DigiCat

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Witchcraft in America: The History & the Myth is an anthology that encapsulates the multifaceted narratives surrounding witchcraft in American culture, from its historical roots to its mythological representations. Bringing together works that span a variety of literary styles, including academic essays, historical documents, and personal accounts, this collection offers a comprehensive look at how witchcraft has been understood, represented, and legislated. The diversity of the works included highlights the evolution of societal attitudes towards witchcraft, with standout pieces that explore its impact on community dynamics, legal systems, and cultural mythologies, thereby showcasing the anthology's breadth in addressing the complex intersection of history and myth. The contributing authors and editors, figures like Charles Wentworth Upham, Cotton Mather, and Howard Williams, come from varied backgrounds, including historians, clergymen, and skeptics, all of whom have significantly contributed to the discourse on witchcraft in America. Their collective works embody the spectrum of perspectives that have characterized the American encounter with witchcraft, from Puritan responses to modern reinterpretations. This anthology aligns with key historical and cultural movements, providing readers with insights into the socio-political underpinnings of witch hunts and the enduring fascination with witchcraft in American culture. Witchcraft in America: The History & the Myth is an essential read for anyone interested in exploring the nuanced perspectives on witchcraft across different epochs in American history. It offers a unique opportunity to delve into the myriad ways in which witchcraft has been perceived, prosecuted, and popularized, making it a seminal resource for students, scholars, and anyone fascinated by the intersection of history, law, and folklore. This anthology promises an enriching journey through the complex tapestry of beliefs, fears, and understandings that witchcraft has woven into the fabric of American society.

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Charles Wentworth Upham (1802-1875) was an American author, historian, and politician known for his works on the history of witchcraft in America. Born in St. John, New Brunswick, Upham graduated from Harvard College in 1821 and went on to become a minister at the First Church in Salem, Massachusetts. His interest in the complex history of his adoptive town, particularly the infamous Salem witch trials of 1692, led him to write extensively on the topic. In his book, 'Witchcraft in America - The History & the Myth,' Upham provides a detailed analysis of the social, historical, and psychological factors that fueled the witchcraft hysteria in the early American colonial period. His scholarly approach combines meticulous research with narrative storytelling, seeking to dispel the myths surrounding the trials while offering insight into their enduring legacy on American culture. Upham's literary style is characteristic of 19th-century historiography, emphasizing a didactic tone aimed at both educating and engaging the reader. His work remains a significant contribution to the field of early American history and the study of witchcraft. In recognition of his contributions, Upham also served as a member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives and later as a state senator, further cementing his legacy as a prominent figure in American intellectual and political circles.