Abstract
This paper examines Robert Eggers' 2015 folk horror film The Witch as a legitimate form of historical interpretation that illuminates the intersection of gender, folklore, and religious belief in 1630s colonial New England. Through analysis of primary sources including Cotton Mather's Memorable Providences, Samuel Willard's possession accounts, and Salem witch trial records, this study demonstrates how Eggers' meticulous attention to historical detail creates a narrative that captures the psychological and sociocultural dimensions of Puritan experience. The paper argues that by taking seriously the theological worldview of its subjects rather than dismissing supernatural elements as superstition, The Witch achieves a form of historiophoty that reveals how gendered anxieties, isolation, and religious fervor manifested in witch accusations. Central to this analysis is the film's protagonist Thomasin, whose journey from falsely accused daughter to willing covenant-maker with Satan reflects both historical patterns of female persecution and contemporary feminist reinterpretations of the witch figure. This work contributes to broader conversations about the role of popular culture in shaping historical understanding and demonstrates how genre conventions, when grounded in rigorous historical research, can serve as effective vehicles for conveying the visceral realities of the past.
Date
Spring 2025
Department
History
Advisor/Professor
Dr. Thomas Mays
Citation Style
Chicago