Question # 1
 Karleson's criticism of all previous studies of the Salem witch trials (including Salem Possessed, though she doesn't mention this work by name) is that "Even when they note that witches are usually women, most works pass over the fact quickly or conclude that witches were scapegoats for hostilities and tensions that had little to do with sex or gender" (xii-xiii).  She then states that her "pressing concern is why most [alleged] witches in early American society were women."  Apply this criticism to B & N and explain why it is an appropriate criticism of their work, at least in regard to some of the accusations.  Choose a specific example from B & N, which is also examined by Karlson, to illustrate your point and explain why gender, in Karlson’s view, must be considered as part of the picture in this case.
 

 Karlson, Devil in the shape of a woman, Chs. 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

Question # 2

 In Chapter 3, Karlson makes a brilliant discovery by looking at "inheriting women" and their potential vulnerability to witchcraft accusations that have nothing to do with the stereotypical "poor and disagreeable woman."   Review in detail one of the Salem cases examined by Karlson in order to become familiar with the specifics of her argument in the Salem context.   If you disagree with Karlson’s interpretation, and in some cases there are reasons to, explain.

Question # 3

In chapter 4 she explains why accusations that mention only social behavior are intimately connected to Puritan religion and hence to the concept of witchcraft.  Describe an example that illustrates her explanation of this important connection between religion and personal behavior.

Question # 4

 Finally, take a look at the pivotal subject of "young female accusers' in Chapter 7.  What are the main characteristics of this group, what disposes them to make witchcraft accusations?  In particular, what about the important orphan or partial orphen status of several of them --  especially the Salem girls?
 
Compare Norton's discussion in handhout.  How does Norton's viewpoint differe from Karlson's?