What is vinegar tom?

"Vinegar Tom" is a play written by Caryl Churchill, first performed in 1976. The play is set in 17th century England during the time of the witch trials, and explores themes of female power, sexuality, and oppression. The title refers to a folk belief that witches kept familiars, or spirit animals, which were often associated with vinegar.

The play follows the character of Alice, a young woman accused of witchcraft, and her interactions with a group of women who are also under suspicion. Through these characters, Churchill examines the ways in which women were marginalized and oppressed in this time period, using the witchcraft trials as a lens to explore these themes.

"Vinegar Tom" is known for its unconventional structure and style, incorporating elements of Brechtian theatre and folk music. The play has been praised for its powerful and thought-provoking depiction of women's experiences in a patriarchal society, and continues to be performed and studied in modern theater.