A 17th-century recipe book attributed to Deliverance Dane forms the core of Katherine Howe’s 2009 novel of the same title. This fictional grimoire, central to the narrative, blends historical elements of early American life with supernatural themes, exploring herbal remedies, folk magic, and the persecution of women accused of witchcraft. While purportedly a guide to healing and domestic arts, its contents become intertwined with a dark family legacy.
The book’s significance lies in its representation of the precarious position of women in colonial America. It symbolizes the clash between traditional practices, often viewed with suspicion, and emerging scientific thought. The blend of herbalism and folk magic within its pages reflects the medical knowledge and beliefs of the time. It serves as a lens through which to examine societal anxieties about female power and the fear surrounding anything deemed unconventional or challenging to established authority. Furthermore, the narrative surrounding the manuscript explores themes of intergenerational trauma and the enduring power of secrets.
