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53 pages 1 hour read

The Witch of Edmonton

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1621

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Book Brief

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Thomas Dekker, John Ford, William Rowley

The Witch of Edmonton

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1621
Book Details
Pages

102

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

Edmonton, England • 17th Century

Publication Year

1621

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Witch of Edmonton by Thomas Dekker, John Ford, and William Rowley tells the interwoven stories of Elizabeth Sawyer, a woman who turns to witchcraft in response to societal ostracization, and Frank Thorney, who commits bigamy and murder to secure his inheritance. The play also includes comedic elements with a group of Morris dancers. The narrative draws on the real-life figure of Elizabeth Sawyer, executed for witchcraft in 1621. The play includes physical violence, death by suicide, and discriminatory attitudes.

Mysterious

Dark

Unnerving

Melancholic

Fantastical

Reviews & Readership

3.8

872 ratings

45%

Loved it

43%

Mixed feelings

13%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Witch of Edmonton by Thomas Dekker, John Ford, and William Rowley is praised for its intricate exploration of societal issues and the stigmatization of marginalized individuals. Critics admire its compelling characters and complex narrative. However, some find the plot convoluted and the pacing uneven. Overall, it remains a significant work in early modern drama.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Witch of Edmonton?

A reader who would enjoy The Witch of Edmonton by Thomas Dekker, John Ford, and William Rowley is likely interested in early modern English drama and societal critiques. Fans of Shakespeare's dark comedies or tragic plays like Macbeth and Doctor Faustus by Christopher Marlowe will appreciate its exploration of witchcraft, morality, and community dynamics.

3.8

872 ratings

45%

Loved it

43%

Mixed feelings

13%

Not a fan

Character List

Elizabeth Sawyer

The titular witch of the play, an older woman marginalized by her community and driven by a desire for revenge after being wronged. Based on a real historical figure, she grapples with societal prejudices and personal turmoil.

A supernatural familiar that appears in the form of a dog, played by a human actor, assisting Elizabeth Sawyer in her actions. He embodies the era's beliefs about witchcraft and influences various characters' moral trajectories.

A man facing socio-economic pressure, whose actions and decisions set off a series of dramatic events. He navigates complex moral dilemmas and challenges posed by his family's expectations and social status.

A woman who finds herself entangled in Frank Thorney’s schemes, portrayed with agency and complexity. She navigates her difficult circumstances while seeking to maintain her moral integrity.

The play's clown who provides comedic relief through wordplay and physical humor, involved in a subplot about Morris dancers. His interactions with Dog offer a humorous perspective on the supernatural elements.

Frank's father, a gentleman facing financial difficulties, whose actions are driven by the socio-economic concerns of the time. His strategies to secure his family’s future create tension within the narrative.

Book Details
Pages

102

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

Edmonton, England • 17th Century

Publication Year

1621

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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