Agency and Emotion of Young Female Accusers in the Salem Witchcraft Trials

Abstract

ABSTRACT This article utilises emotions theory to explore the actions and behaviour of the young female accusers in the Salem witchcraft trials. It argues common historical interpretation of this behaviour has largely ignored the cultural context of witchcraft belief among young women, as well how agency and emotion functioned in the courtroom setting. By comparing the physical and emotional reactions of the young Salem accusers with other cases of young female bewitchment across England and New England, I argue this behaviour was a cultural response to witchcraft which imbued young female accusers with unprecedented cultural power and agency.