The Witch of Wenham
This poem tells the story of a witch who lives in a small village and is feared by its inhabitants. The villagers believe she has supernatural powers and are convinced that she is responsible for their misfortunes. However, it is revealed that the witch's supposed powers are actually just her knowledge of herbal remedies and medicine.
By John Greenleaf Whittier · First published 1853 · Genre: Poetry, Historical Fiction, Romance · 2,560 words
First lines
The house is still standing in Danvers, Mass., where, it is said, a suspected witch was confined overnight in the attic, which was bolted fast. In the morning when the constable came to take her to Salem for trial she was missing, although the door was still bolted. Her escape was doubtless aided by her friends, but at the time it was attributed to Satanic interference.
I. ALONG Crane River's sunny slopes Blew warm the winds of May, And over Naumkeag's ancient oaks The green outgrew the gray.
What this Textopian page supports
The Witch of Wenham is listed on Textopian as a poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, dated 1853 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: John Greenleaf Whittier
- Date: 1853 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Historical Fiction, Romance, Gothic Fiction, Drama
- Length: 2,560 words
- Structure: 1 section, 60 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhyme and meter characteristic of poetry.
- Historical Fiction — The narrative is set against the backdrop of the Salem witch trials, incorporating historical elements and themes.
- Romance — The plot includes a romantic relationship between the main characters, highlighting themes of love and sacrifice.
- Gothic Fiction — The work features dark themes, supernatural elements, and a sense of dread associated with witchcraft.
Tags
Historical Fiction · American Literature · Poetry · Folklore · Witchcraft · New England · Colonial Era · Puritanism · Religion · Magic · Supernatural · Mystery