Answer: The feeling and association that the word evokes.
We learn that the elder Pyncheon possibly framed Matthew Maule for witchcraft to gain the property and build the house. These wrong doings seem to curse anyone who lives in the home.
I believe it is A. It seems like the most reasonable answer.
Assuming this was the same post that was made before, according to the author, the real tragedy of this fable is that the main character never realizes her true goal.
