Anne Hutchinson’s trial provides an insight into early colonial society in the Americas, specifically the common mindset of peoples and religious bodies in the Massachusetts area. In her trial, there are two major charges the Governor, John Winthrop, lays against her. His first charge regards the harbouring of meetings that go against the will of the church and of God. Hutchinson challenges Gov. Winthrop and while not disputing her involvement in the meetings, says that her actions regarding these meetings break no laws and that she did not take part in any of the rebellious group’s actions directly, including the signing of their petition. Gov. Winthrop then tells her that her actions were illegal despite her claims, to which Hutchinson replies “What …show more content…
Winthrop replies “Why dishonouring of parents” (37). Winthrop uses the fifth commandment as a ‘catch-all’ law against her, with there being no specific law against what she has done, Winthrop claims she is dishonouring her parents through her actions against the colonies and the church. Through this rationale, any action someone takes could be viewed as dishonouring their parents, and thus illegal, even with no additional infractions regarding the law or bible. Gov. Winthrop then shifted from Hutchinson’s harbouring and entertainment of rebellious meetings and interactions with those seeking revolution to a more serious and inflammatory charge.

After a recess, Gov. Winthrop brought up charges against Anne Hutchinson for her interactions with a meeting of ministers. According to 6 witnesses, Anne Hutchinson spoke against the ministers said “they preached a covenant of works and that they were not able ministers of the New Testament” (41) and also that she said to them “The fear of man is a snare. Wherefore shall I be afraid, I will speak plainly and freely” (41). There is long