The Possession of Elizabeth Knapp

In 1671, sixteen-year-old Elizabeth Knapp, a servant in the household of Reverend Samuel Willard in Groton, Massachusetts, began exhibiting symptoms that her community interpreted as demonic possession. The case, documented in detail by Willard, foreshadowed the mass hysteria that would engulf Salem two decades later.

The Symptoms

Elizabeth’s affliction began in October 1671 with fits and convulsions. She would scream, contort her body, and exhibit superhuman strength. She attempted to throw herself into the fire and had to be restrained by multiple adults.

During her episodes, Elizabeth claimed to see and hear demons. She accused the devil of tempting her with offers of money, silk, and an easy life if she would sign his book and become his servant.

The Voice

Most disturbing was the phenomenon of the voice. Elizabeth would speak in a deep, masculine voice that seemed to come from within her chest while her lips did not move. This voice mocked those present, blasphemed against God, and claimed to be Satan himself.

Reverend Willard documented that Elizabeth could not have produced the voice through normal means. It occurred while she was in trances, and she had no memory of what was said when she regained consciousness.

Accusations

Under pressure, Elizabeth accused a neighbor, an elderly woman, of bewitching her. This accusation was not acted upon; Willard and other clergy were skeptical of spectral evidence and did not pursue prosecution.

This restraint stands in contrast to what would happen in Salem in 1692, when similar accusations led to the execution of twenty people.

Resolution

Elizabeth’s possession gradually diminished over several months. By early 1672, the symptoms had largely ceased. She lived the rest of her life without further incidents, eventually marrying and raising a family.

Significance

The Elizabeth Knapp case is significant for its detailed documentation and for the restraint shown by authorities in not pursuing witchcraft accusations. It demonstrates both colonial beliefs about possession and the diversity of responses to such cases.