ENG 111 - Famous Trials: 4. Analyzing Your Trial

Keeping in mind step 1, look through the steps again on page 1 and then see the detailed steps below.

Who?

Knowing the names of individuals, groups, or organizations connected to your trial will help you focus your search. For example, while researching the Salem Witchcraft Trials (1692) important people include:

• Cotton Mather
• Increase Mather
• Rev. Samuel Parris, a fire-fanning minister
• Tituba, a bewitching slave
• John Proctor (accused witch; had an affair with Abigail)
• Other accused witches: Bridget Bishop, George Burroughs, Giles Corey, Mary Easty, Sarah Good, Rebecca Nurse, and Philip & Mary English.
• Deliverance Hobbs, a “confessed” witch.
• Judges: John Hathorne, Samuel Sewall & William Stoughton
• Governor: William Phips

What?

Reading a summary of the trial will help you understand the trial better. What exactly happened? What year was the trial? What was the verdict? What made this case so famous?

Where?

Dates are very important and can help you create a timeline of events. Each trial will have significant events associated with it. Knowing when the trial took place will help you choose the best sources to consult. For example, is your trial in today's newspaper, or did the event happen 200 years ago?

When?

Places are important to a trial, knowing the important places associated with your trial will help you choose the best sources to consult. Each state has their own laws. Knowing "where" the crime and trial occurred can help you pick the best sources.

How?

Getting background information on why people are interested in your trial can help you decide whether the verdict was just or unjust. Why is your trial considered a "famous" trial?