Arthur Miller's 'The Crucible' as an Allegory on the Intolerance of McCarthyism

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The Crucible is interpreted as an allegory on the intolerance of McCarthyism, allowing Miller to express his criticisms towards the practice through a crucial period in American history. After its publication, it was widely expressed that the Crucible illustrated Miller’s opinion on McCarthyism and its effect on society. McCarthyism is defined as the political practice of broadcasting accusations of disloyalty and undermining power and authority without providing legitimate evidence. This was specifically targeted to communists, who similarly were the innocent citizens falsely accused of witchcraft in Salem. Although Miller does not specifically mention McCarthyism, he incorporates analogies to elements of McCarthyism. A direct connection to it is Danforth states "a person is either with this court or he must be counted against it, there be no road between.” This crucial quote loosely references the aspect of McCarthyism that loosely states a person is either with the government, or suspected of communism. Miller continues to reinforce this technique through the representation of his characters. Abigail reflects on the encouragement of accusations of innocent folk without providing solid evidence, such as claiming “I saw Sarah Good with the Devil! I saw Goody Osburn with the Devil!” therefore encouraging the fellow girls of Salem to follow. This parallels to McCarthy’s allegations against anyone regardless of their social status. Proctor however, represents the injustice placed upon the honest citizens who attempted to clear their names. The hangings reflect on the citizens during the McCarthy era who were blacklisted and therefore excluded from society. Although there is no direct symbolism, this practice is clearly depicted in t... ... middle of paper ... ...ation in his text. Miller continues to reinforce reputation through the characterisation of Elizabeth Proctor. Although her statements are false, Abigail expresses that “It’s a bitter woman, a lying, cold, snivelling woman, and I will not work for such a woman!” This opening opinion of Elizabeth allows Miller to reinforce the false characterisation of her, which is used to damage the good name of Elizabeth and her reputation. Abigail further expresses “I will not have it said my name is soiled! Goody Proctor is a gossiping liar!” Miller not only displays this to effect the reputation of Elizabeth, but also utilises it to express the length Abigail will reach to keep her own name unspoilt. The reader examines the effect of characterisation, allowing Miller to convey the importance of reputation and highlight the significance of social standing in a religious society.

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