How are the Salem witch trials important to the history of literature?

Answer 1

The events in Salem, MA, of 1692 offer little significance to the history of literature. The trials are important, however, as a window into myriad social distresses. The powerlessness of young, unmarried women, land disputes, and the theocratic government of the time all came together to create ghastly injustice. Arthur Miller, the playwright of The Crucible, which is about the Salem Witch Trials, considered the events uniquely rooted in basic plot structure; a beginning, middle, and end were self-evident. Other than this insight, no literary value can be vouched for.

Answer 2

The nonfiction basis on the Trials is extensive, streching as far back as the 19th century. The novel basis is not something I can make sound amazing. It's really hard to find one that tells a worthwhile story and doesn't twist too many vital facts.