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34 pages 1 hour read

Escaping Salem

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2004

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Book Brief

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Richard Godbeer

Escaping Salem

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2004
Book Details
Pages

192

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Connecticut Colony • 1690s

Publication Year

2004

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

13-18 years

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Super Short Summary

In 1692 Stamford, Connecticut, Katherine Branch, a maidservant, has unexplained fits, leading to accusations of witchcraft against several local women. The ensuing trial is marked by a cautious approach to avoid the hysteria of the Salem witch trials, ultimately resulting in the acquittal of all accused, emphasizing the measured and divided responses of the community compared to the mass panic in Salem.

Informative

Mysterious

Contemplative

Unnerving

Melancholic

Reviews & Readership

3.9

672 ratings

58%

Loved it

31%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Escaping Salem by Richard Godbeer is widely praised for its detailed and engaging narrative, which provides a compelling take on a lesser-known witch trial. Reviewers appreciate its thorough historical research and accessible writing. Some criticisms note a desire for deeper analysis of broader witch trial implications. Overall, it's a well-regarded, informative read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Escaping Salem?

A reader who enjoys Escaping Salem by Richard Godbeer likely has a keen interest in early American history, legal studies, and folklore. They would appreciate its detailed examination of the lesser-known Stamford witch trials of 1692. Fans of The Crucible by Arthur Miller and Salem Possessed by Paul Boyer and Stephen Nissenbaum will find it particularly engaging.

3.9

672 ratings

58%

Loved it

31%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

Character List

Katherine Branch

A 17-year-old orphan and maidservant accused of being bewitched, whose accusations lead to a series of trials and inquiries in her community. Her credibility is questioned by some, including possibly Abigail Wescot.

The first woman accused by Katherine, previously involved in a quarrel with the Wescots. Despite suspicions of witchcraft, she was acquitted by the jury.

The second woman accused by Katherine, who escaped to New York upon hearing of her accusation. Her brothers' influence helped her avoid extradition.

The third woman accused by Katherine and one of the only two to go to trial. Initially convicted due to a supposed "Devil's mark," her conviction was later overturned following a petition.

Three women accused by Katherine after the preliminary inquiry, all of whom were immediately acquitted due to a lack of evidence.

Abigail's husband and Katherine's employer, who strongly believed in Katherine's accusations and was determined to stop the alleged bewitchment.

Daniel's skeptical wife, who doubted Katherine's claims and saw her as deceitful and lazy, possibly suggesting these views to others as well.

The local midwife who first examined Katherine and initially sought a natural explanation for her condition. She remained unconvinced of bewitchment and supported Mercy Disborough's defense.

Stamford's Oxford-educated minister, who reinforced Daniel's suspicions and supported Katherine's claims, though some suspect he might have influenced her account.

The wealthiest man in Stamford and one of the magistrates in the preliminary inquiry, who conducted much of the investigation by interviewing Katherine and Daniel.

The Deputy Governor of Connecticut, who served as a magistrate during the special court, researching evidence standards for indictments and convictions.

Book Details
Pages

192

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Connecticut Colony • 1690s

Publication Year

2004

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

13-18 years

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