The Crucible is a tragic play that examines the theme of mass hysteria by incorporating real historical events of witchcraft trials in 17th-century America. Its purpose is to expose the unjust execution of innocent people and explore the reasons behind their false accusations. Furthermore, it explores the motives of both the accusers and those who, under pressure, falsely confessed to practicing witchcraft.
Arthur Miller wrote “The Crucible” in 1953 in response to his own experiences in the anti-Capitalist pro-Communist witch-hunt. The play skillfully showcases conflicts among characters, emotions, and principles in intense dramatic scenes. These conflicts reach their pinnacle when the strong-willed John Proctor is coerced into confessing but steadfastly refuses to implicate others, remaining loyal to his own honor. Proctor’s determined stance, even at the expense of his own life, highlights the thematic depth of the play.
Miller, who was accused of anti-American activities, authored a play based in Salem, Massachusetts in 1692. The play revolved around a group of girls involved in supernatural practices. As a consequence, numerous individuals, both men and women, were incarcerated and accused of practicing witchcraft. Tragically, twenty individuals were executed by hanging. The citizens of Salem had strict beliefs rooted in their interpretation of the Bible, firmly believing in the existence of witches and the Devil.
According to their beliefs, they also believed that the Bible required the hanging of witches. The play portrays a series of separations and reconciliations in the relationship between John and Elizabeth, both physically and emotionally. John Proctor, who is married to Elizabeth Proctor, a devout Puritan woman, serves as the main character in the play.
Throughout the play, John’s involvement with Abigail Williams, a young girl in the village, is evident. In Act 1, although Elizabeth is not physically present, she is mentioned, creating a biased perspective of her. This act also unveils the relationship between John and Abigail. Moving on to Act 2, John and Elizabeth are depicted together.
At the start of this act, John and Elizabeth are distant from each other both emotionally and physically. However, throughout the act, their emotional bond grows stronger although their physical distance remains the same when Elizabeth is removed. The courtroom scene in Act 3 brings them closer physically, with both John and Elizabeth present. Nevertheless, Judge Danforth introduces tension by restricting Elizabeth’s gaze to directly meet his. Act 4 showcases the characters’ emotional and physical strength, displaying their closest connection yet in the play. Sadly, this closeness is short-lived as John is ultimately taken away by the end of the act.
Despite being physically separated, emotionally Elizabeth and the rest of the characters have grown closer. Elizabeth’s absence in Act 1 results in the audience forming a somewhat biased opinion of her. Abigail, for instance, describes her as “a cold, snivelling woman.”
The audience eagerly anticipates Elizabeth’s appearance in the play as John defends her despite her absence. This initial portrayal showcases his enduring love for her, despite his previous infidelity.
Abigail speaks poorly of Elizabeth, but John refuses to let Abigail ruin Elizabeth’s reputation, despite his feelings for Abigail. In Act 2, we witness John rejecting Abigail. This act is crucial in understanding the dynamics between John and Elizabeth as it is the first time they are seen together and the way they interact. The audience can then evaluate and form their opinions on Elizabeth and John as a married couple, and see if Elizabeth aligns with Abigail’s portrayal.
Upon seeing Elizabeth for the first time, the audience witnesses her greeting John and questioning, “What keeps you so late? It’s almost dark.” Her tone carries a slight suspicion that reflects a sense of distrust. This suspicion is evident to the audience due to their knowledge of John’s affair with Abigail.
John also shares the awareness that Elizabeth lacks trust in him. In my opinion, their relationship in the current moment of the play appears to be quite formal due to the evident emotional distance observed in their conversations, actions, and demeanor. The audience gains further insight into their relationship as they learn about their true feelings towards each other and the affair at hand. John expresses, “I believe you are once again feeling sorrowful.”
“Are you?” John asks. Elizabeth responds, “You come so late I thought you’d gone to Salem this afternoon.” John is inquiring if Elizabeth is upset, aware that she believes he is still involved with Abigail. The portrayal of their relationship changes in this act as they argue, although the language remains formal. John declares, “Women, I will no longer tolerate your suspicions.”
John referring to his wife as “woman” is incredibly harsh and demeaning, making it seem as though they are not even married. It appears that John lacks the trust of Elizabeth. In this act, the author employs interruptions as a literary device, which enhances the realism of the play and contributes to the comprehension of the characters’ conflicts and circumstances. Overall, the audience’s perception of this relationship is currently negative.
The trust in the relationship portrayed so far is lacking, which I believe to be a key element in a relationship. In the midst of this, Mary Warren is introduced as a character used by the author to disrupt the arguments between John and Elizabeth.
In the midst of the chaos, Mary Warren becomes the target of blame and occasionally endures John’s outbursts. Reverend Hale’s arrival brings troubling news to John – Elizabeth’s name has been mentioned in court. This revelation further unites John and Elizabeth, as they recognize the falsehood of any accusation against her. They are both aware that Abigail’s intentions are to take Elizabeth’s place as John’s wife.
John expresses his desire to please Elizabeth in Act 2. Elizabeth acknowledges this and reveals that she is aware of it. After their conversation, John stands up and goes to Elizabeth. He kisses her, which she reciprocates. However, there is a feeling of disappointment as he returns to the table.
“This demonstrates the initial tension between them to the audience at the beginning of Act. The tension is likely to be acknowledged by the audience, possibly leading to sympathy towards John. Between Acts 2 and 3, it is apparent to the audience that John Proctor loves Elizabeth. When she is taken away from him, he becomes angered, creating a sense that he will attempt to save her in subsequent acts.”
This creates a dramatic atmosphere for the audience as Act 2 concludes with Elizabeth being taken away, leaving them to speculate about John’s next actions. The end of Act 2 marks Elizabeth’s arrest and a partial reconciliation between her and John. Act 3 marks the start of the trials, and despite the physical distance between John and Elizabeth, their emotional bond remains strong.
John is making a strong effort to liberate his wife because he deeply loves her. This evokes sympathy from the audience because they are connected emotionally, but not physically. This situation continues throughout Act 3. Nevertheless, towards the conclusion of the act, Elizabeth is brought in when John admits to committing adultery.
Upon her arrival, the visible unease in her demeanor suggests nerves. Brought in without clarity on the purpose, she can only make out the backs of John and Abigail. The audience, on the other hand, is well aware of the reason behind her presence, intensifying the dramatic ambience. They know that she is tasked with confessing her husband’s unfaithfulness to Judge Danforth
Elizabeth is unaware of the fact, but both John and Abigail are aware that “That woman, Mr. Danforth, will never tell a lie.” John refers to Elizabeth as an individual rather than presenting a biased opinion of her, as seen earlier in Act 1. According to the stage directions in this act, Elizabeth stands alone, searching for Proctor with her eyes.
In this scene, the audience witnesses the dramatic impact of Danforth’s actions. It becomes apparent that Elizabeth leans on John for emotional support. Additionally, the audience observes the tension that arises from their physical proximity. Despite their desire to be together, Danforth’s rules restrict their ability to do so, resulting in a constrained and regulated atmosphere.
Once again, according to the stage directions, there is a slight pause followed by Elizabeth’s attempt to glance at Proctor. This further highlights the tension and drama that Danforth has created for the audience. Following this, Elizabeth declares that her husband is a good and righteous man.
Elizabeth uses the term “My Husband” instead of calling him John, likely because she is aware of Abigail’s presence. This demonstrates Elizabeth’s awareness of her audience and her desire to avoid causing any tension. Additionally, by placing emphasis on the word “My”, Elizabeth is highlighting her sense of ownership and belonging to her husband, as opposed to Abigail. This choice of words may also serve as a personal reminder for Elizabeth and John of their marital bond and the closeness they share.
The word “righteous” holds importance, especially during the Christian theocracy era. This sentence brings drama to the audience by revealing the close bond between John and Elizabeth, and Elizabeth’s direct address to the audience may alter their opinions of her. Furthermore, there is always a brief pause before Elizabeth speaks, intensifying the atmosphere for the audience. In Act 3, Danforth informs John that Elizabeth’s life is spared for another year due to her pregnancy.
John opposes having a child without a wife due to the extremely low or nonexistent chances of the child’s survival. I think the audience would support John’s choice as it would be considered unfair to bring a child into the world with no hope of surviving. In Act 3, Elizabeth lies to protect John’s life. When questioned by Danforth about whether her husband is unfaithful, Elizabeth firmly denies it saying “No, sir.”
The playwright creates a dramatic incident in which Elizabeth is forbidden from interacting with John or Abigail, and instead must focus solely on Danforth. The tension is palpable through the positioning and movements of the characters, and the audience is aware of John’s confession to adultery. This combination of factors generates one of the most intense scenes in the play.
I believe that the audience will feel empathy towards Elizabeth due to the predicament she was placed in, as her husband’s life depended on the questions asked. In the final moments of the act, the audience witnesses the strength of their love firsthand, as Elizabeth lies to protect her husband and falsely claims that he is not a lecher. While this is a falsehood, it is only Hale who recognizes that Elizabeth’s words were driven by love. Unfortunately, Judge Danforth refuses to believe this.
In Act 4 of the play, John and Elizabeth’s physical distance is greater than ever before. Elizabeth, who is pregnant, is prohibited from seeing their children. As for John, he is imprisoned on accusations of engaging in dealings with the devil. Elizabeth’s execution is postponed until after she gives birth. Despite their separation, these circumstances bring them closer emotionally.
Reverend Hale urges John to confess, as it would save his wife and child. He informs Elizabeth that her husband’s execution is scheduled for the following morning and attempts to persuade her to convince him to confess. When they meet, their interaction initially seems formal, but as their conversation progresses, their genuine emotions for each other become evident to the audience. In a soft tone, Elizabeth acknowledges, “I have heard it.”
She is aware of the information that her husband is scheduled to be hanged. This is a short and straightforward statement. The repetition of the “h” sound twice creates a subdued tone, suggesting a sense of surrender or defeat.
She may not like it, but she has accepted it without further comment. This will elicit sympathy towards Elizabeth from the audience, while also foreshadowing the dramatic events to come as they now know that John is destined to die. When Elizabeth and John greet each other, Proctor asks about the child, and Elizabeth replies, “It grows.” This exchange might come across as a distant greeting to the audience.
Despite their long separation and lack of visible emotion, the audience may be touched by the fact that the first thing John and Elizabeth mention is their child, indicating their love for it. John compliments Elizabeth, saying “You are a marvel.” However, Elizabeth remains composed and does not display any emotions.
It is possible that onlookers are present, but regardless, this indicates respect for John. The audience’s response would likely demonstrate their intimate connection with him. Elizabeth’s display of strength may evoke emotions in the audience. Elizabeth admits, “I cannot condemn you, John.”
She is not attempting to manipulate or sway him; instead, she desires for him to follow his own desires. Immediately following, John expresses, “I seek your forgiveness, Elizabeth.” These two statements from the theatrical work generate a profound moment for the viewers. Elizabeth affirms, “No matter what actions you choose, it is the mark of a virtuous individual.”
“This echoes everything she has previously said, signifying that she has accepted what has happened and forgiven him for his mistakes, which led him here. I believe the audience would be pleased at this moment, as Elizabeth has made peace with John.” A stage direction for Elizabeth states, “now pouring out her heart.”
Throughout the play, Elizabeth has consistently lacked demonstration. However, this is the first instance where she reveals genuine emotions. The audience is expected to react positively to this display. In a moment of vulnerability, Elizabeth cries out “Forgive me, forgive me, John-I never knew such goodness in the world!” She hides her face and starts weeping. It is crucial to recognize that the phrase “forgive me” commands forgiveness, signifying Elizabeth’s desire for John not to doubt or question her sincerity.
The audience’s reaction to this would likely be positive as it indicates the resolution of the drama and the nearing conclusion. However, they will also feel sympathy for Elizabeth as they are aware that she is about to lose her husband. In Act 4, Proctor’s motive for confessing at this point, right before his execution, seems to be seeking forgiveness from Elizabeth. He acknowledges that his integrity is compromised and he considers himself unworthy.
Furthermore, he asserts, “I desire to have ownership over my own life.” I anticipate the viewers will perceive this segment as highly theatrical; as John’s genuine emotions gradually come to light. I believe the audience will appreciate his independence and how he no longer utters words solely to appease Elizabeth. I hold the belief that Elizabeth now regards her husband as virtuous and sincere, truly harboring love for him.
In my view, the audience will appreciate their emotional unity, which makes them stronger than ever before. John expresses, “I cannot pretend to be a saint and accept the gallows. It is false. I am not that person.”
At the end of the play, during the execution scene, he remarks, “now I do think I see some shred of goodness in John Proctor.” I believe his decision to remain truthful and not lie, even though he could have chosen to stay with Elizabeth, led to a transformation in his self-perception. The audience will likely admire him for this, as he now recognizes the goodness within himself and his commitment to preserving his reputation by refusing to deceive. In Act 4, when Elizabeth and John reunite in the prison, a significant change in their relationship becomes apparent to the audience. They have become much closer, as Elizabeth expresses that she does not consider herself deserving of him.
The author characterizes herself as an ordinary woman who maintains a “cold house”. The segment concludes with an intense kiss. I believe viewers will appreciate this moment as John and Elizabeth are finally physically and emotionally united. Additionally, the fact that the scene ends with a genuine expression of affection, unaffected by religious beliefs or other factors, will evoke sympathy for John and Elizabeth. The audience anticipates the impending end to their connection.
The concluding scene of the play portrays Elizabeth’s genuine forgiveness towards John and her acknowledgment of her own imperfections. Ultimately, she perceives John as a virtuous and autonomous individual, applauding his autonomy and considering him as a respectable figure who has been unjustly treated in the Salem community.
If Elizabeth had been loving and confident in their relationship, her husband may not have been tempted. Ultimately, Elizabeth displays immense courage as she declines to sway her husband’s choice. Though she loves him deeply, she understands that he must prioritize what is best for himself, even if it results in his demise. Numerous themes can be identified throughout the play.
Throughout the play, there are common themes that can be observed. Some of these themes include the concept of “name”, “goodness”, and “conscience”. The theme of “name” is prominently displayed in the play. For instance, in Act 1, Abigail expresses her discontentment that Elizabeth is tarnishing her reputation.
In Act 2, Elizabeth firmly claims that her name possesses a positive reputation. Upon reaching Act 4, John refuses to surrender his name, though he is willing to sacrifice his soul. The play emphasizes the significance of one’s name, even surpassing the value of life itself, exemplified by John’s actions in Act 4. Additionally, the play explores the relationship between John and Elizabeth as another central theme.
It is the only relationship in the entire play that is extensively explored. Another theme in the play is “goodness”. In the time of the play’s setting, there was a theocracy, which gave significant importance to the concepts of good and evil, both in a spiritual and political sense.
Elizabeth is seen as a virtuous woman in Salem. She believes that John is a virtuous man and refuses to undermine his integrity in an attempt to persuade him to save himself. Another theme in the play is the public nature of all the actions depicted. John’s infidelity provides a good illustration of this aspect.
To clarify, the adultery in question involves John, Elizabeth, and Abigail. However, the discussion of this adultery extends to the entire Salem community, particularly in public venues like the courtroom where many gather. Another theme at play here is “conscience” and the related feelings of guilt and forgiveness, as exemplified by John’s indiscretion.
Although John is known as the lecher, both he and Elizabeth feel responsible and seek forgiveness when the issue of guilt is brought up. The concept of purification is a central theme in The Crucible, where a crucible, a container used for heating metals to extract pure metal from impurities, serves as a metaphor for Salem.
Tyranny is a prevalent theme in the play, as it portrays individuals behaving like tyrants, making dishonest confessions, and attempting to manipulate each other for their own benefit. Furthermore, the play consistently revolves around the conflict between personal and communal security. The town of Salem is being threatened by its own residents, who take advantage of the collective fear of the Devil.
The Crucible draws attention to the abuse of power given by the state, leading to the mistreatment and condemnation of individuals. This draws a clear connection to the McCarthy investigations, where those who disagreed were labeled as foes. The play also explores the importance of honesty and integrity. The characters who display the most admirable qualities are those who maintain their dignity and reject falsehoods.
Rebecca Nurse, Elizabeth, and John Proctor are all examples of individuals who experience a similar fate. In their respective journeys, they confront inner turmoil and, ultimately, make choices that define their characters. John Proctor, in particular, opts to preserve his integrity at the cost of his life, affirming the central theme of “purification” in The Crucible. Conversely, those who neglect their principles end up disillusioned and suffer long-lasting psychological and moral damage.
The theme of loyalty is exemplified in The Crucible through John’s loyalty towards his friends in Act 4. Despite learning that Elizabeth is pregnant, he chooses not to retract his accusations against Abigail and continues to support his friends whose wives are also being accused of witchcraft. Another instance of loyalty in the play is seen during the courtroom scene when Elizabeth denies John’s affair. This act of loyalty, ironically, destroys John’s case against Abigail.
Another theme in the play is courage, exemplified by the accused individuals of witchcraft, such as Rebecca Nurse. Even as she faces execution, she implores John to remain fearless. Similarly, John urges Elizabeth to not display any tears.
Giles Corey’s defiance of authority is displayed through his refusal to plead either guilty or not guilty to his charges. This act was done in order to ensure that his sons will inherit his farm instead of the state. In his final moments, Corey fearlessly utters the words “More weight.” The Putnams’ disputes over land and Ann Putnam’s hostility towards Rebecca Nurse serve as manifestations of envy. These intense emotions ultimately lead to accusations of witchcraft.
Abigail is jealous of Elizabeth’s role as John’s wife and is reliant on Elizabeth’s absence in order to replace her.
