When an old Woman begins to doat [sic], and grow…
![“When an old Woman begins to doat [sic], and grow chargeable to a Parish, she is generally turned into a Witch,and fills the whole Country with extravagant Fancies, imaginary Distempers, and terrifying Dreams. In the mean time, the poor Wretch that is the innocent Occasion of so many Evils begins…” quote by Joseph Addison](https://sms4smile.com/q/i/393/joseph-addison-377_business_when-an-old-woman-begins-to-doat-sic-and_2895449.jpg)
“When an old Woman begins to doat [sic], and grow chargeable to a Parish, she is generally turned into a Witch,and fills the whole Country with extravagant Fancies, imaginary Distempers, and terrifying Dreams. In the mean time, the poor Wretch that is the innocent Occasion of so many Evils begins to be frighted at her self, and sometimes confesses secret Commerces and Familiarities that her Imagination forms ina delirious old Age.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Society often labels unconventional elderly women as witches, attributing community misfortunes to them, while the women themselves become fearful and confess imagined crimes.
In simple terms: People blame odd elderly women for problems, causing fear and false confessions.
Key Takeaway
Beware of scapegoating and fear‑driven accusations.
Themes
stereotyping
fear
social control
ageism
Mood
anxious
critical
reflective
Type
cautionary
social commentary
When to use this quote
- rural communities
- elder care
- legal accusations
- family dynamics
Key Concepts
witchcraft hysteria
mass paranoia
psychology of blame
Questions to Reflect On
- How does fear shape our view of the elderly?
- What safeguards prevent unjust blame?
A Different Perspective
Such accusations can be rooted in genuine health concerns mis misinterpretation, not just superstition.