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Online Talk: The Shadows of Salem – Myth V Reality in Lois the Witch and Other Tales

Does literature reveal the truth behind history or does it simply create a more haunting story? Discover how Elizabeth Gaskell drew on the real Salem Witch Trails of 1692 to write her 1859 novella, Lois the Witch. Then take a look at other witchy tales from the dark side.

Join us for an evening of historical unmasking as we explore the tragic story of Lois Barclay, an English orphan caught in a whirlwind of Puritan fanaticism in colonial Massachusetts.

Author Livi Michael peels back the Gothic layers of tension and dread to discover where historical fact ends and Victorian fiction begins. How is the figure of the witch a symbol of social anxiety, sexual politics and mass hysteria and what is the real truth of the tale?

Perfect for Elizabeth Gaskell fans and anyone fascinated by the enduring horror of the Salem Witch Trials.

‘Absolutely fascinating. She had unearthed so much information previously unknown to me‘ Previous online attendee

Part of Short Stories – The Gothic Season

Wednesday 14 October, 7-8pm

Tickets £6

**Refer to your e-ticket for zoom joining instructions and links. This talk will also be recorded and all ticketholders will receive a link to the recording via TicketSource after the event.**

What else do I need to know?

**Refer to your e-ticket for zoom joining instructions and links. Please check your spam/junk mail for ticket. This talk will also be recorded and all ticketholders will receive a link to the recording via TicketSource after the event.**

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Elizabeth Gaskell’s House is run by Manchester Historic Buildings Trust (charity no. 1080606) and all money gained through private tours, talks, room hire and ticket sales goes towards the ongoing maintenance and running costs of the House. If you would like to support the House with an additional donation you can do so via this link.