Fever in Salem

Discover the intriguing connection between witchcraft and illness in Laurie Winn Carlson's compelling book, Fever in Salem. Published by Ivan R Dee in 2000, this 220-page paperback delves into the social history of 17th-century Salem, Massachusetts, and offers a fresh perspective on the infamous witch trials. Unlike traditional historical accounts that focus on the accused, Carlson shifts the spotlight to the afflicted, drawing parallels between the symptoms documented in colonial diaries and those of the encephalitis epidemic. This innovative exploration provides readers with a well-researched argument that the victims of the Salem witch trials may have been suffering from the same disease. Perfect for history enthusiasts and those interested in the complexities of early American society, Fever in Salem invites you to rethink the narratives surrounding this dark chapter in U.S. history.