Judge not lest ye be judged? These words would prove to be good advice for the characters of The Witch of Blackbird Pond. Everyone is passing judgment on everyone else. The judgment culminates when Kit is put on trial, accused of being a witch. The novel also wants readers to consider the concept of justice – in Kit’s situation, to sure, but also as it relates to the colonists whether it's just for them to be ruled by the distant King of England.
Questions About Justice and Judgment
- What misjudgments does Kit make about the Wood family? About New Englanders?
- What misjudgments does the Wood family make about Kit?
- Why is Hannah thought to be a witch by the Puritans? Why is Kit thought to be a witch?
- Does Nat misjudge Kit? How?
Chew on This
Try on an opinion or two, start a debate, or play the devil’s advocate.
Kit's biggest problem with William Ashby is that he's too judgmental.
Though it is home to some good people, Wethersfield overall is not a just community.