Analysis Of The Play 'Witchcaft Or Martyrs Of Salem'

Those whom step outside the boundaries set by the “Puritan society” are often accused of witchcraft and face a death sentence. Ambla, one of the main character’s in the play, “Witchcaft or Martyrs of Salem” is tried and found guilty. Ambla chooses based on her past, not to conform to the traditional woman’s role which makes her vulnerable to the unscrupulous community.

The town’s leading men seize the opportunity to twist and misconstrue Ambla’s actions to fulfill their evil desires. Some of these actions include acquiring clay idols, taking nightly walks while talking to herself, and avoiding church. Ambla’s daily actions are based on; feelings of depression, perceived guilt over the death of her husband, self-confidence and not those of a witch. The play,

One of those accused of being a witch is, an elderly widow woman, Ambla Bodish. This allegation is made by several townsmen who seek to expand their wealth and power. Ambla’s disinterest in fitting into “Puritan society” stems from unresolved issues she experiences due to her husband’s death and a need to be self-sufficient. Her daily habits and the distain she holds for the accusers only serves to accentuate the differences between her and the people of Salem; further enhancing the claims of witchcraft made by the townsmen.

Although Gideon, her son has a deep love for his mother, their relationship is fractured by the dark secret Ambla keeps from him. The accusations of witchcraft, therefore, not only affect

Ambla, but everyone her life intersects.

Cornelius Mathews, as a young man of 29, wrote the play, “Witchcraft or Martyrs of Salem” approximately 150 years after the Salem Witch Trials. The author recounts the interactions and thoughts between the accusers, the accused, and the people in their lives. Creative reenactments, such as this play, highlight traumatic historical events and often