Witchcraft of New England Explained by Modern Spiritualism

by Allen Putnam

"Witchcraft of New England Explained by Modern Spiritualism" by Allen Putnam is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book investigates the phenomena associated with witchcraft in New England, specifically examining the historical context and interpretations tied to events like the Salem witch trials, while proposing that modern spiritualism provides insights into these past occurrences. It aims to rectify historical misinterpretations of witchcraft by connecting them to psychological and spiritual phenomena. The opening of the book begins with a preface that critiques previous historical writings on New England witchcraft, asserting they dishonor the dead and oversimplify complex events as mere fraud or deception. Putnam sets his intention to re-examine the records of witchcraft through the lens of modern spiritualism, suggesting that many accounts from the past were indicative of genuine spiritual experiences rather than mere hysteria. He expresses a desire to present a more nuanced view of the afflicted individuals, asserting that many factors, including psychological forces, could explain the happenings attributed to witchcraft. Essential figures like Cotton Mather and Robert Calef are introduced, citing their conflicting accounts, which serve as a basis for the exploration of this historical phenomenon.