SOAPTONE An Attack on the Salem Witch Trials

SOAPTONE An Attack on the Salem Witch Trials

Source  

Who wrote the document?  

Thomas Brattle

What is the author’s background/point of view?

Thomas Brattle was a well educated Boston Merchant.  He had interests in science and mathematics as well as commerce. Brattle was a liberal in both his political and religious views and opposed Puritan ways.

Whose point of view, given the topic, is
missing?  

The accused “witch”.

Do you consider the source a reliable one on this topic?  Why/why not?

Yes, it accurately portrays the view of non supporters of the Salem Witch trial. It does not portray all views of the Witch trial, and is biased because it is written by one person.

Occasion  

When was the document written?  

Around 1692

What does the date of the document tell you about its content?

It was during the time of the Witch Trials. This means that the article was written during the time of the trials meaning it is a primary source.

What other historical events were going on during this time? 

Salem Witch trials

Audience  

To whom is the author writing?  

Unknown English clergy man

What type of document is this (diary entry, personal letter, public speech,
etc.)?    

Private letter that got circulated

Does the private/public nature of the document inform you about its content
(is the author sharing private thoughts, making a public pronouncement,
etc.)?  

The privatness of this letter allows Brattle to condemn the ongoing of the witch trials without being judged.

Purpose  
Why was the document written?  What is the purpose of the document?  

This document was written to condemn the way the witches were judged (not whether or not they were witches).

What is the document saying?

That the witches testimony, being affected by the devil, should not be taken seriously.

Tone

What is the attitude of the speaker?

Condemning.