The problem is, he only used one case. The case he used shows how it was not the same as Salem but does not give the reader the idea that this was the norm. Salem is the most notorious witch hunt and trial in American history, and most Americans know it. But, for those who are not aware or educated about the event, Godbeer's purpose in writing the book would be difficult for the reader to understand. This is a downfall in this writing. If he had included other sources and other accounts of witch trials in New England, his argument that Salem was not the norm would have been more effective. The book explains well how the Stamford trial was handled and how the judges and citizens considered the evidence, although not all citizens did. Some were very quick to judge and wanted the accused to be put to death. Godbeer's case would be much stronger if he had included the other accounts surrounding New