The Witches, Salem 1692 by Stacy Schiff

When I had a classroom of sophomores in English II, we began the year with Miller's The Crucible.  I always opened with the statement that the play was historically inaccurate.  I'd say something to the effect of "do not think you are going to read this play and call yourself an expert on the Salem Witch Trials; you will make a fool of yourself".  The reality though is that Miller's play has taken the place of true history, in part because just about every teenager in America reads his version, whether in American Literature or U.S. History.  Even if they don't read it, they've likely seen the Winona Ryder/Daniel Day-Lewis movie version, since it's on all the time.

To combat this syndrome, I'd try to sneak in some accurate history Reading for Information stuff along with my curriculum requirements.  I'd try to get in the Carrier trial piece in our anthology or something of Mather's.  I'd also try to point out spots that aren't plausible in true history.  Abigail was a child, she was not an overly sensual 17 year old out for Proctor's hand in marriage.

Reading Schiff's book, I found myself learning new things just a few pages in.  I've been to Salem half a dozen times, both as a chaperone and with family.  I've read a lot of background material (for anything I taught, not just Salem).  I've watched the Ghost Adventures episode on Bridget Bishop (and yes, I snuck in a clip from that too!).  I still learned a TON of new information.

When I review a book, you know I've either really liked it or see its value in adding it to our collection by telling you I'm buying it.  Unfortunately, we are frozen budget wise at WHHS right now.  We were able to get a small book order in (still waiting on the actual check to clear though...) just days before the freeze took effect, with some significant tantrum throwing by yours truly.  As such, I am ordering it via Amazon using our bottle drive funds!  Look for it after Thanksgiving!

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