Boyer & Nissenbaum, Salem Possessed, Chs. 6, 7, 8

Answer question one and then either two, three, or four.
 

Question 1

Give a brief sketch of the Putnam and Porter families, as presented in Chapter 5, by focusing on Thomas and Edward Putnam as accusers in contrast to Israel Porter as a defender.  How do B & N explain Porter's role as defender , and what are  his motives --  why do his interests clash with those of the Putnams?  In the next chapter, (Ch. 6) briefly state the issue of conflict between Joseph Putnam and his brothers (Thomas, Jr, Edward), as B & N see it.  Why do you suppose that Joseph Putnam was never accused of witchcraft?   Local tradition relates that he expected to be accused and kept his horse saddled at all times, with pistols ready.

Question 2

Compare B & N's explanations of the accusations against Martha Corey and Rebecca Nurse with Mary Beth Norton's explanations off these same accusations (see handout).  Which explanations do you find more acceptable?  Why is it important to B & N's theory that Corey and Nurse be regarded as "substitutes" for Mary Veren  --  is their argument far fetched, as Norton suggsts?  Explain.
 

Question 3

Look at the accusation against John Willard and John Proctor -- do you find B & N's explanation of the economic basis of the accusations against them convincing? Compare with Mary Beth Norton's explanations.  Next, look at the portrayals of Sarah Osborne, Sarah Good, and Job Tookey -- do you find B & N's explanations convincing in these cases? Explain.

Question 4

Scholars have often had difficulty in evaluating the role of Samuel Parris in the witchcraft trials. For some he was the main "instigator" for others he was  a major  contributor to the conflict  --  an ambitious and determined man.  How do B & N characterize the significance of his role?  Explain.