The Patriarchy Takes Down Ann Pudeator

About this episode

This episode explores the life of Ann Pudeator and the impact of patriarchy during the Salem witch trials.

Ann Pudeator was a twice-widowed caregiver whose independence and outsider status made her a target during the Salem witch trials. We explore how this elderly, independent woman stoked societal fears, and reveal how deeply the patriarchy influenced the witch hysteria in 1692. As well as how courageously Ann stood her ground until the end. Learn more about host Greg Houle's novel: The Putnams of Salem: A Novel of Power and Betrayal During the Salem Witch Trials.

People in this episode

Host: Greg Houle

Topics covered

• Salem witch trials
• patriarchy
• independence
• societal fears
• historical analysis

Keywords

• Ann Pudeator
• Salem witch trials
• patriarchy
• independence
• historical context

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: The Putnams of Salem: A Novel of Power and Betrayal During the Salem Witch Trials

More episodes of The Salem Witch Trials Podcast

• The Man Who Put Salem Back Together · May 5, 2026 · 26 min
• Tituba and the Fear That Made a Witch · February 27, 2026 · 23 min
• Welcome Back to Salem: Season 2 Preview · November 27, 2025 · 4 min
• BONUS: The Putnams of Salem: The Audiobook · October 10, 2025 · 14 min
• A Reflection on Our First Season · March 27, 2025 · 10 min
• Suspicion and Fear Consume Wilmot Redd · March 3, 2025 · 21 min