Primary source analysis : Witchcraft Trial of Elizabeth Clawson, Stamford, Connecticut (1692) - Essay Example

Primary source analysis The witchcraft trial of Elizabeth Clawson, Stamford Connecticut is a chapter in the book written by John F. Taylor. The article focuses on the issues associated with the ruling and cases associated with witchcraft. The focus of the article is the accusing of Elizabeth Clawson by the indentured servant called Katherine Branch. Brach accused Elizabeth and other women of being witches. However, in close scrutiny, the issue was not witchcraft, but personal vendetta.The development of grudge between individuals is the major cause of the challenge faced by the society in the early 20th century.

The case of Elizabeth is an indication of the impact of grudge and development of wrong understanding of personalities and envy. From the trials, it is evident that personal vendetta was a major contributor to the suits and the argument offered in the article. The article evaluates the case of Elizabeth Clawson and other women accused of being witches by virtue of envy and disease such as epilepsy. The focus of the author is on the different issues that contributed to the allegations presented in the court to show that Elizabeth was a witch.

Despite focusing of the evidences, further argument is presented to illustrate the nature of the conflict and explain the ploy used to solve the problem. The ploy was successful in some instances but failed in the case of Elizabeth Clawson.The use of allegations to criminate individuals in the society is common trend employed in the past with various degrees of success. However, the case of Elizabeth Clawson indicates the impact of envy and vendetta in hiding the truth and causing harm to individuals.

The article articulates effectively the reason for the allegation and the court case presented.Works CitedTaylor, John M. Taylor, John M. The Witchcraft Delusion in Colonial Connecticut 1647–1697. New York: Grafton Press, 1908. 101-140. Print.