The world of witchcraft is ever-evolving, and one witch type that has emerged in recent years is the cutting edge witch. This modern witch embraces new technologies and incorporates them into their craft, making them stand out from their traditional counterparts. The cutting edge witch is not afraid to explore the digital realm. They utilize various online platforms, such as social media and online forums, to connect with other witches, share spell ideas, and seek advice. They understand that the internet is a powerful tool for research and learning, and they take advantage of it to deepen their knowledge and understanding of witchcraft. In addition to embracing technology, the cutting edge witch also incorporates modern tools into their practice.
In 2017, the Proctor’s Ledge Memorial was built in Salem, Mass and a marker was established for Bridget Bishop.
In 1957, the Massachusetts legislature officially apologized for the Salem Witch Trials and cleared the names of One Ann Pudeator and certain other persons but failed to mention the remaining victims by name. Although he correctly identified Bridget Bishop as a woman who previously been charged with witchcraft, he conflated two people into one, inaccurately identifying her as living just outside of Salem Village, rather than in Salem town where she did live, and of being a rather colorful tavern keeper, which she was not.
In addition to embracing technology, the cutting edge witch also incorporates modern tools into their practice. They may use smartphone apps for tarot readings, download digital grimoires onto their e-readers, or create electronic sigils on their computers. These witches understand that technology can enhance their craft, allowing them to be more precise, efficient, and effective in their spellwork.
Bridget Bishop
Written By Sarah-Nell Walsh
Actress Rebekah Clinard as Bridget Bishop in History Alive production of 'Cry Innocent,' by Mark Stevick, Salem, Summer, 1999.
Bridget Bishop has developed into a colorful character in the legendary history of Salem Village. As the first woman tried and executed as a witch during the Salem witchcraft trials, she has attracted a lot of imaginative speculation about her character and behavior.
The Bridget Bishop that is most commonly portrayed is one who kept a house of refreshment for travelers, and a shuffle board for the entertainment of her guests. She generally seemed to have exhibited certain behaviors and appearances that exposed her to some scandal. She wore a showy costume for the austere Puritan times -- a red bodice. Her freedom from the severity of Puritan manners and disregard of conventional decorum in her conversation and conduct brought her into disrepute, so the tongue of gossip was generally loosened against her. She is portrayed as a folk heroine in Salem's story. A spirited, feisty, buxom, and lusty woman who flaunted Puritan morals with a happy public house where drinking and gambling occurred. Many say that it was her flashy taste in dress, her smooth and flattering manner with men, and the questionable gaieties that had gone on in her two taverns, which led to people gossiping about her as a witch as far back as King Philips War.
This, however, is not the same Bridget Bishop of history. Research done by historian David Green indicates that scholars and writers have confused Bridget Bishop of Salem with Sarah Bishop, a tavern keeper in Salem Village. Bridget Bishop lived on a small piece of property in Salem Town and was between fifty-five and sixty-five in 1692, when she was accused of witchcraft. The account below follows the more historically accurate description of Bridget Bishop's life, taken from Bernard Rosenthal's book Salem Story.
In 1666, the widow Bridget Wasselbe married Thomas Oliver and had a daughter named Christian. This marriage was less than idyllic. In 1678, Bridget was accused of calling her husband names on the Sabbath, and both she and her husband were sentenced to stand gagged in the market place for their offenses. In January 1679, Bridget and Thomas were both sentenced to be whipped for fighting. It was not unusual for Bridget's face to be battered during her marriage to Thomas Oliver. In 1680, she was accused of witchcraft. This accusation could have been facilitated by Thomas' claim that "she was a bad wife . . .the devil had come bodily to her . . . and she sat up all night with the devil." (Charles Upham, Salem Witchcraft). This accusation occurred after her husband died without leaving a will, and seems to be the classic case of a vulnerable, propertied woman being accused of witchcraft. She posted bond, and there is no record of any punishment. In 1687, she was charged with stealing brass objects. Her record then remains clean until she is brought up on witchcraft charges again in April 1692.
On April 19, 1692 at her examination, Bridget Bishop began her testimony with courtesy and deference. This deferential attitude soon gave way to anger as she realized that denying her involvement was not an effective strategy. The afflicted girls were in the courtroom swooning in response to the imagined spectral advances of Bridget Bishop. Magistrate John Hawthorne unleashed his loaded questions, asking, "How is it that your specter hurts those in this room?" Bridget replied, "I am innocent to a witch. I know not what a witch is." Hawthorne turned this answer to his advantage by asking, "How can you know, you are no witch, and yet not know what a witch is." She replied, "I am clear: if I were any such person you should know it." Although it is not clear what Bridget meant by this comment, Hawthorne clearly took it as a veiled threat and replied, "You may threaten, but you may do no more than you are permitted" (Salem Witchcraft papers). No one can know for certain if this bold interchange earned Bridget Bishop the distinction of being the first hanged on the gallows.
On May 27, Phips established a special court of Oyer and Terminer to try those accused of witchcraft. On June 2, Bridget Bishop was the first person tried in the new court, perhaps because her previous witchcraft accusation made her a likely candidate. In her trial, spectral evidence was given an unprecedented status. She was charged with "tortur[ing], afflict[ing], pin[ing], consum[ing], wast[ing]: & torment[ing] her victims," Abigail Williams, Ann Putnam Jr., Mercy Lewis, Mary Walcott, and Elizabeth Hubbard. Bridget vehemently denied the charges at her trial, believing that to be the only way to avoid execution. She did not realize that her only hope lay in confessing to witchcraft. When Cotton Mather wrote of the evidence against her in his book Wonders of the Invisible World, he included preposterous stories that could best be called gossip. One such story recounts that Bishop cast a glance upon Salem meeting house, while walking under guard. This "look" caused a board, which had been fastened with nails, to be removed to another portion of the house. Her case served as a model for future cases to come, following a very predictable pattern. The "afflicted" persons made their accusations, which were denied by the accused; members of the community told of past acts of witchcraft by the accused; and one or more confessors validated the claim of the accusers. The court used spectral evidence as the primary legal basis to convict Bridget Bishop. Hanged on June 10, her death warrant emphasizes only the harm done to her accusers, primarily on the day of her examination, as the legal justification for the execution.
David Green, "Salem Witches I: Bridget Bishop," The American Genealogist, Vol. 57, No. 3. 1981: 130-138.
Charles Upham, Salem Witchcraft, 1867.
Bernard Rosenthal, Salem Story,1997.
Just three months after receiving her inheritance in November, Bridget’s stepchildren accused her of bewitching Oliver to death. A lack of evidence prevented the case from going to trial and it was speculated that the stepchildren’s accusation was an attempt to get their hands on the property she inherited from their father.
However, being a cutting edge witch goes beyond just using technology. It also means being open to new ideas and practices. These witches are not bound by tradition and are willing to explore different paths and experiment with various techniques. They may combine aspects of different witchcraft traditions or create their own unique blend of practices. By being adaptable and open-minded, they constantly push the boundaries of what it means to be a witch. The cutting edge witch realizes that witchcraft is not static; it is a living, evolving practice that continues to develop alongside society. They embrace change and actively seek out new ways to incorporate their craft into their daily lives. By doing so, they stay ahead of the curve while also honoring the rich history and traditions of witchcraft. In conclusion, the cutting edge witch is a modern practitioner who embraces technology, incorporates new tools, and explores new ideas. They are not afraid to break free from tradition and constantly push the boundaries of witchcraft. This witch type serves as a reminder that witchcraft is a dynamic practice that continues to evolve and adapt to the ever-changing world we live in..
Reviews for "The Future of Witchcraft: Exploring the Cutting Edge of Magical Innovation"
1. Sarah - 2 stars - I was really disappointed with "The cutting edge witch". The storyline was weak and predictable. The characters felt one-dimensional and their actions were often unrealistic. The dialogue was also lackluster and I found myself cringing at some of the cheesy lines. Overall, I wouldn't recommend this book to anyone looking for a well-written and engaging witch-themed novel.
2. Mark - 1 star - This novel was a complete waste of time. The plot was slow-moving and confusing, making it difficult to stay invested. The protagonist was unlikeable and lacked any depth or development. Additionally, the writing style was cumbersome and heavy-handed, making the reading experience painful. I struggled to finish this book and regretted spending my money on it.
3. Emily - 2 stars - "The cutting edge witch" failed to captivate my interest. The story felt disjointed and disjointed, with random plot twists that didn't make much sense. The characters were forgettable and their relationships were underdeveloped. The writing itself lacked finesse and did not flow well. I found myself skimming through large portions of the book just to get to the end. Overall, it was a disappointing read.