The poem tells the story of a young woman who lives in rural New England and is accused of witchcraft by her neighbors. She is tried and convicted, but just before she is to be executed, a group of men from the town arrive and take her away, saving her life. The poem explores themes of superstition, fear, and the dangers of unchecked power.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1838 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Gothic