Elizabeth Sawyer facts for kids
Elizabeth Sawyer was a woman who lived a long time ago, in the early 1600s. She was accused of being a witch during the time when James I of England was king. Her story became very famous.
Contents
Life and Accusations
Living in Winchmore Hill
Elizabeth Sawyer lived in a place called Winchmore Hill in England. People in her village had already suspected her of being a witch for a while. They thought she used bad language often, which made them even more suspicious of her.
The Accusation of Magic
Elizabeth was accused of causing the death of a woman named Agnes Ratcleife. This happened after Agnes had hit one of Elizabeth's pigs. The pig was eating Agnes's soap at the time. People believed Elizabeth used magic to harm Agnes.
The Story of Tom the Dog
It was said that a demon, which looked like a dog, appeared to Elizabeth. This dog was named Tom. People claimed that Tom tricked her into serving evil. They said the demon dog would visit her three times a week. Sometimes it looked black, and sometimes it looked white.
The Trial and Conviction
During her trial, women were asked to search Elizabeth for a "witch's mark." This was a special mark people believed the Devil left on witches. They claimed to have found such a mark on her. This discovery strongly influenced the jury. Elizabeth Sawyer was found guilty of witchcraft. She was put to death in 1621.
A Famous Witch Trial
Elizabeth Sawyer's trial was one of the most talked-about witch trials in England during the early 1600s. A famous pamphlet was written about her story. It was called The Wonderfull Discoverie of Elizabeth Sawyer, a Witch (1621). This pamphlet was written by Reverend Henry Goodcole.
Her story also inspired a play. The play was called The Witch of Edmonton. It was written by Thomas Dekker.
