Criticism And Symbolism In Arthur Miller's The Crucible

Arthur Miller’s The Crucible is an intricate piece of literature. He assembled this literary labyrinth using precision. One example of his twisted methods is his use of the word, “crucible”, in his text. What does the word, “crucible”, mean? This word has five definitions, and Arthur Miller has managed to bring all five of them into play in The Crucible. One definition of the word, “crucible”, is “The light placed in front of The Crucifix”. This definition, unlike the others, is used in a largely abstract way in the text. The, “light”, in The Crucible is a symbol of shining a light on, or drawing attention to, certain issues. The, “light”, in The Crucible accentuates conflicts, issues, and situations that may cause clamour. In Act Four

The Puritans wanted to purify the Church of England of Roman Catholic practices. Anyone who defied Puritanism, would be severely punished by The Puritans. The, “light”, in the text represents the Puritan devotion to religion. Some Puritans, such as John Proctor and Rebecca Nurse, took a hanging because they refused to admit to the crime of witchcraft. They believed that they should die with a good name, and not lie to save their lives. They committed a brave act, instead of backing out and lying out of cowardliness. Their devotion to Puritanism had to have been remarkable for them to choose death over lying about committing a vast sin to save their lives. This shows that they are very faithful and chose to die in the best way possible, standing for what they believe

The, “light” emphasizes conflicts, issues, and situations that cause an uproar. There was, “light”, drawn on John Proctor’s death by him being hanged in front of people who once had copious amounts of respect for him. There was also, “light”, drawn on the fact that John Proctor died with dignity. He chose his name and morals of religion over his life. He stood true to his word and took the hanging as a punishment so he wouldn 't have to commit a sin and lie about practicing witchcraft. The, “light”, also symbolizes the Puritan devotion to religion. They believed that they should die with a good name, and not lie to save their lives. They committed a brave act, instead of backing out and lying to save their lives. Their devotion to Puritanism had to have been exceptional for them to choose death over lying about committing a vast sin to save their lives. This also brings us to God’s fiery. “light”, is God’s fiery, and God’s fiery is heat. The fiery of God is symbolized by light throughout the play. The fact that the Puritans chose death over facing God’s fiery in hell, suggests that they fear it greatly. The Puritans believed things had to go one way, or it was wrong. If they lied about committing witchcraft, they would be severely punished by God in hell. Lastly, The, “light”, reveals intolerance in the play. The Puritans of Salem did not tolerate John