Calico Captive

Calico Captive takes place at the beginning of the French and Indian War (1754-1763), which was part of the larger Seven Years’ War. This was a pivotal conflict between Britain and France and both sides were supported by various Indigenous tribes. The war began over territorial disputes in the Ohio Valley and quickly spread across North America. In New England, the war had profound effects. The region experienced frequent raids and skirmishes, particularly in frontier areas. The inciting incident of Calico Captive is when the Abenaki tribe—who were allied with the French—captured Miriam and her family. They are eventually sold to the French in Montreal, which was also significantly impacted by the war.

Montreal was a major French stronghold, and the British military focused many military campaigns on it. The war has several important impacts on the novel, making Miriam and her family’s survival more difficult. The war waylays James for seven months because he cannot safely return to Montreal. Miriam experiences the anger of the Montreal people during the novel because—with some exceptions—overwhelmingly they viewed Miriam and other English prisoners as enemies. Miriam struggles to find anyone to hire her after the Du Quesnes turn her out. When