High School

### Questions on Cotton Mather's *The Wonders of the Invisible World*

**Title Page and "The Author's Defense"**

1. **Analyze the title.** Choose a few key words and discuss their connotations. Then, make a prediction about what kind of book you think will follow.

2. **Analyze the title of the first excerpt.** Choose a few key words and discuss their connotations. Then, make a prediction about what kind of writing you think will follow.

3. **Scribonius was the court physician to the Roman emperor Claudius.** Why do you think Mather would compare himself to an ancient court physician in the opening of his book?

4. **What does Mather expect will likely happen to him as a consequence of writing this book?**

5. **According to Mather, what is "extraordinary" about the times in which he was living?**

6. **What does he say that those who become authors in this time should do?** Quote the phrase that he uses and then explain it in your own words.

7. **Why was he "concern'd"?**

8. **In the sentence that begins "Therefore it is...," how does Mather describe himself?**

9. **What is Mather's dual purpose in writing,** as explained in the paragraph that begins "I have indeed set myself..."?

10. **What does Mather include as a defense of the "historical part" of his writing?**

11. **What is the point of view of this passage?**

12. **What is Mather's tone throughout the passage?**

13. **Explain the contradictions in the Defense section of the book.** What is left out? What doesn't make sense? Where do Mather's ideas or points or explanations contradict each other?

Answer :

Final answer:

Cotton Mather's work, 'The Wonders of the Invisible World,' explores the complex dynamics of witchcraft trials in New-England through an earnest and defensive tone, reflecting both his moral concerns and the societal repercussions of his writings. He adopts a perspective comparable to that of a court physician, indicating his dual role of commentator and moral guide during extraordinary times of social and spiritual crisis. Throughout the text, Mather's contradictions highlight the tension between his desire to enlighten and the potential backlash he may face for doing so.


Explanation:

Analysis of Cotton Mather's Work

1. Analyze the title. The title "The Wonders of the Invisible World" includes words like "Wonders" and "Invisible." The former suggests something extraordinary and remarkable, while the latter implies mystery or things hidden from plain sight. This title hints at a narrative that explores supernatural phenomena or events that might not be easily understood.

2. Title of the first excerpt. The first excerpt's title likely continues the theme of unveiling mysteries associated with witchcraft, leading readers to expect a serious exploration of the trials and moral dilemmas involved.

3. Comparison to Scribonius. Mather compares himself to Scribonius to emphasize his position as a physician of societal morals in a time plagued by spiritual affliction due to witchcraft. Like a doctor, he prescribes remedies through his writings.

4. Consequences of writing. Mather anticipates backlash and criticism for his views, especially in a time of heightened emotional responses to witchcraft.

5. Extraordinary times. Mather describes the era as filled with heightened tension and moral decay, where evil manifested itself strongly, appearing imminent and threatening.

6. What authors should do. Mather states that authors should be prepared for adversity; he mentions they should be 'fenced with Iron.' In essence, writers must be mentally and spiritually fortified against criticism.

7. Concern. Mather felt 'concern'd' due to the societal ramifications of witchcraft and the potential for moral decline if left unaddressed.

8. Self-description. Mather humbly describes himself as 'One of the Least among the Children of New-England,' which shows his modesty and recognition of his role relative to greater societal issues.

9. Dual purpose in writing. His dual purpose is to serve God and protect his community through his writings, which strive to engage the people in recognizing divine actions in the world.

10. Defense of the historical part. Mather defends his historical writing by emphasizing its relevance and the gravity of the events he chronicles.

11. Point of view. The point of view is first-person, as Mather writes from his experiences and beliefs.

12. Tone. His tone is earnest and defensive, reflecting both concern and urgency regarding the moral state of society.

13. Contradictions in his Defense. Mather's contradictions arise when he defends his writings while simultaneously acknowledging their potential for backlash. He seeks to enlighten but understands the perilous reception of his messages.


Learn more about Cotton Mather's Perspective here:

https://brainly.com/question/38452178