The Witchcraft Delusion in New England: Its Rise, Progress, and Termination (Vol. 2 of 3)

"The Witchcraft Delusion in New England: Its Rise, Progress, and Termination" by Samuel G. Drake is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. This work delves into the historical phenomena of witchcraft accusations and trials in New England, particularly during the infamous Salem witch trials, illustrating their impact and eventual decline. It explores the narratives and testimonies of key figures involved in the witch trials, such as Dr. Cotton Mather and Robert Calef, providing a critical examination of the social and religious context surrounding these events. The opening of the book introduces the author’s intent to provide an accurate reprint of Robert Calef's original work, "More Wonders of the Invisible World," alongside annotations to assist readers. It discusses the context in which the original text was written and the need for it to be presented faithfully, underlining the historical significance ascribed to the trials and the individuals involved. As the narrative progresses, it mentions Calef's courage in speaking against the prevailing witchcraft hysteria and highlights his challenges in countering the dominant views of his contemporaries, particularly against figures like Cotton Mather. This sets a stage for a serious examination of the misconceptions surrounding witchcraft beliefs in colonial America.