Question

Elizabeth describes Abigail's saint-like status in the courts. How do Abigail and the other girls gain this status and authority? Please embed a quote from the passage and think about the themes we've discussed such as hysteria/paranoia.

Answer 1

Abigail and the other girls gain saint-like status and authority through their role as accusers in the Salem Witch Trials, where their dramatic testimonies create an atmosphere of hysteria and paranoia.

Step-by-step explanation:

Abigail and the other girls gain their saint-like status and authority in the courts through their role as accusers in the Salem Witch Trials. The girls' initial accusations led to the establishment of a special court where they served as the main witnesses. Their vivid and dramatic testimonies, which included throwing themselves on the floor and writhing and groaning, created an atmosphere of hysteria and paranoia that gave them immense power and authority over the accused. This is evident in the passage, which describes how the girls pointed their fingers at additional residents and accused them of being witches, ultimately leading to the execution of many individuals. The themes of hysteria and paranoia play a significant role in amplifying the girls' status and authority.

Learn more about The Salem Witch Trials