Mary Beth Norton’s In the Devil's Snare offers a nuanced exploration of the Salem witch trials, examining intricate political and military contexts. Positive reviews highlight its original thesis and detailed research. Some critique its repetitive nature and dense prose. Overall, it’s a compelling read for those interested in a deeper historical analysis.

Readers who enjoy exploring early American history, particularly the Salem witch trials, will be captivated by Mary Beth Norton's In the Devil's Snare. Comparable to works like The Crucible by Arthur Miller and Salem Possessed by Paul Boyer and Stephen Nissenbaum, it provides a deep dive into the socio-political context of 1692 New England.

In the Devil’s Snare by Mary Beth Norton examines the Salem witch trials of 1692, linking their origins to the socio-political turmoil of King William’s War and the fear instilled by the Wabanaki attacks. Accusations, primarily led by affected young women, escalated rapidly, with the trials characterized by public examinations, spectral evidence, and a growing number of accused individuals across social strata. The narrative reveals how these trials reflected broader colonial anxieties and failures in leadership during frontier conflicts. The book features depictions of violence, murder, and mistreatment of Indigenous peoples, and includes dated and derogatory terms in direct quotations.

Informative / Mysterious / Dark / Unnerving

Mary Beth Norton

Adult

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Nonfiction

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In the Devil's Snare Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Introduction-Chapter 1

In the Devil's Snare Introduction-Chapter 1 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 2-3

In the Devil's Snare Chapters 2-3 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 4-5

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Chapters 6-7

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Chapter 8-Epilogue

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In the Devil's Snare

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