53 pages • 1 hour read
Thomas Dekker, John Ford, William RowleyThe Witch of Edmonton
Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1621A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
The Witch of Edmonton by Thomas Dekker, John Ford, and William Rowley tells the interwoven stories of Elizabeth Sawyer, a woman who turns to witchcraft in response to societal ostracization, and Frank Thorney, who commits bigamy and murder to secure his inheritance. The play also includes comedic elements with a group of Morris dancers. The narrative draws on the real-life figure of Elizabeth Sawyer, executed for witchcraft in 1621. The play includes physical violence, death by suicide, and discriminatory attitudes.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
The Witch of Edmonton by Thomas Dekker, John Ford, and William Rowley is praised for its intricate exploration of societal issues and the stigmatization of marginalized individuals. Critics admire its compelling characters and complex narrative. However, some find the plot convoluted and the pacing uneven. Overall, it remains a significant work in early modern drama.
Who Should Read The Witch of Edmonton?
A reader who would enjoy The Witch of Edmonton by Thomas Dekker, John Ford, and William Rowley is likely interested in early modern English drama and societal critiques. Fans of Shakespeare's dark comedies or tragic plays like Macbeth and Doctor Faustus by Christopher Marlowe will appreciate its exploration of witchcraft, morality, and community dynamics.