The Witch Trials

18 Pages 4392 Words

o earn her keep by doing most of the household chores, and
also care for her invalid aunt. Betty’s poor health prevented her from helping with the household chores, so much of the work feel
on Abigail’s young shoulders.

After chores were done, there was little entertainment for Betty and Abigail. Salem Town was eight miles away, and Boston was
a twenty mile journey over unforgiving roads. Thus, Samuel Parris only visited these places when business required it. He also
opposed the girls playing hide-and-seek, tag and other childhood games because he believed playing was a sign of idleness, and
idleness allowed the Devil to work his mischief.

Reading was a popular pastime during the winter months. There was an interest in books about prophecy and fortune telling
throughout New England during the winter of 1691-92. These books were especially popular among young girls and adolescents. In
Essex County girls formed small, informal circles to practice the divinations and fortune telling they learned from their reading to
help pass...