Salem Witch Trials: A Brief Summary

Norton aims to explain the Salem Witchcraft Crisis in a way that has never been done before. She has decide to take a historical approach to illustrate the heinous acts committed towards these people, majority women in 1692. Her argument is that she is going to use her own narrative to tell the “true” story of what really happened during this period. “My narrative builds on the research and interpretations advanced in prior works on Salem; at the same time, it disagrees with many aspects of those interpretations. In addition to studying the trials, as have most other historians, I examine the broader crisis that produced the trials.” Norton’ main thesis is clearly stated in the introduction of the book, but the question remains, will she achieve that goal?
The basis of her interpretation of this novel as stated before is based on research and other works. Throughout this book the author list countless sources to help explain her interpretation of the context of this time period. She also lists plenty historical dates, trial records, letters and diaries, and places to help further this interpretation and accuracy. One might argue that this a historical novel, which is just like every other novel, but the book contextualized the story in a way that was historical yet entertaining. With dates and places listed she also,
She has earned many degrees, which include a Ph.D. from Harvard University and a Pulitzer Prize finalist. Not only has she earned the highest degree possible in her field from one if not the most accredited institution in the world. She has also written many books, including textbooks and has appeared in documentaries surrounding the Salem witch trails. With just a few accolades to list, this makes her one of the most credible authors and historians in this specific