More handpicked essays just for you.
How history influences American literature
Cambridge history of american literature
History of English American Literature
Don’t take our word for it - see why 10 million students trust us with their essay needs.
Many different books, plays, and other works of art, compose to make up what is today called American literature. American literature however has no boundaries and has no definite start, and currently no definite end. Today American literature is heavily though of as works of literature composed by all Americans of all kinds. Meaning it has no true boundaries in the form of people. No matter race, location, or religion American literature, has a connection to all. American literature is what defines America and its peoples of all races. The true definition of American literature is vague and uncertain; however American literature exists and is a prominent subject throughout the world. Some of the greatest works of art come from American literature, and within this …show more content…
category falls two of the most predominant books of the 19th and 20th century, Nathaniel Hawthorne's The Scarlet Letter (Scar.), and Arthur Miller's, The Crucible (Cruc.). These two books although written at different times help to define American literature in many ways. The Scarlet Letter, tells the story of Hester Prynne and her affair she has with a very influential, and popular reverend, named Reverend Dimmesdale. The affair results in the birth of a child, named Pearl. Initially, Reverend Dimmesdale does not confess to being the father, and adulter; however later guilt weighs his heart down, and he confesses. Hester Prynne, who was formerly married to a man named Roger Chillingworth, who is believed to be dead. However this is untrue, and he comes to seek revenge on Reverend Dimmesdale and does so by, growing in close relation the the man, and slowly attempting to kill him via, medical means. The story takes place in Boston Massachusetts in the early 1600’s. The Crucible on the other hand is a story written in the 1950’s about the Salem witch trials in the early 1600’s. The story follows the protagonist John Proctor as he battles his mistress, Abigail Williams, in a fight to save his life, his wife’s life and many others lives. The story speaks about mass hysteria and and its affects on society. In the end the two books can be seen and both similar and different. When compared to each other, Nathaniel Hawthorne’s The Scarlet Letter, and Arthur Miller’s play The Crucible, share similarities of the use of symbolism, and the ability to write a work of historical literature, many years following the actual events; however they differ due to the author's true purpose of writing.
To begin, both the (Scar.) and (Cruc.) contain many forms of symbolism; however both works of literature have two main examples of symbolism; in (Scar.) it is the symbolism of the literal scarlet letter A; and in (Cruc.) it is the symbolism of the actual play itself. In (Scar.) the main use of symbolism comes in the form of the scarlet letter A that hester Prynne is forced to where because of her crime of adultery. Initially the scarlet letter is used to symbolize Hyster Pryns act of sin, adultery. The large letter A was, meant to be a shameful reminder of her sin. As Hester Prynne and Pearl stand on the scaffold at the beginning of the book it is learned the intended reason for the scarlet letter and what it means. “When the young women- the mother of this child- stood fully revealed before the crowd, it seemed to be her first impulse to clasp the infant closely to her bosom; not so much by an impulse of motherly affection, as that she might thereby
conceal a certain token, which was wrought or fastened into her dress”. (Hawthorne pg. 50 Paragraph 2) From this simple quote it is learned to true meaning of the Scarlet letter. In the quote the scarlet letter is seen as a burden, something Hyster would rather conceal than show. This is because the scarlet letter is a reminder to all of her shame of adultery. She attempts to conceal the letter, by using her child, however it is useless. The scarlet letter is the symbol that throughout the book defines Hester Prynne, and her daughter Pearl. It is the deffinition of her shame, her sin; A for adultery. On the other hand Arthur Miller uses a slightly different form of symbolism in his play (Cruc.). The major symbolism found in the play (Cruc.), has nothing to do with items in the play but, with the overall meaning and plot of the play. During the writing of (Cruc.) the Mccarthy trials are occurring in the United States, where Miller is from. The Mccarthy trials, placed many big name American entertainers in a terrible position of having to admit or blame others for communism. The Mccarthy trials were merely the beginning of what was to become the cold War. In (Cruc.) the play focuses on the Salem witch trials which occurred like the Mccarthy trials out of mass hysteria. In a short excerpt from an article where Miller speaks about his reasoning for writing the Crucible, he states, “The Crucible was an act of desperation. Much of my desperation branched out, I suppose, from a typical Depression -- era trauma -- the blow struck on the mind by the rise of European Fascism and the brutal anti-Semitism it had brought to power. But by 1950, when I began to think of writing about the hunt for Reds in America….(Arthur Miller, Why I wrote the Crucible, Paragraph 6 lines 1-4)” From this quote from Arthur Miller is is learned that the Crucible is written not only about the Salem witch trials, but also the Mccarthy trials of the mid 1900’s. Miller states that he began to think about writing on the hunt for “Reds,” or communists in America. This is shown in his play by the many parallels between the Salem witch trials of the 1600’s and the Mccarthy trials of the 1950’s. In the end it comes down to that fact that the plot of the play; the mass hysteria, and false accusations, all are simply symbolism for the Mccarthy trial of the 1950’s. In conclusion, it is clear to see that both stories use symbolism in the work of literature; however they do differ by peice of literature. In addition to symbolize, both works of literature, the (Cruc.) and (Scar.), can be considered historical fiction, and both have to deal with the same colony, Massachusetts; however both books were written years later following the historical events that occur in the book. In the example of (Scar.) the book is published in the year 1850, yet the story takes place over 200 years earlier in the town of Boston Massachusetts in the early 1600’s. The reasoning for this time difference is explained in an article where, the introduction to the story is summarized, it states, “The Scarlet Letter begins with a preface of the novel's beginning in Salem, Massachusetts with an unknown surveyor of the customhouse. This surveyor (who is Hawthorne) accidentally discovers a scarlet cloth with gold embroidery in the shape of an "A" among a pile of manuscripts. The manuscripts contain information aging back two hundred years from the time of the narrator” (Lit 215, Paragraph 2, lines 1-3). From this article it can be learned that the true plot of (Scar.) is comprised of manuscripts and other documents, including the scarlet letter. It is clear to see that the story is not written in the 1600’s but rather the 1850’s, yet the story of the novel is derived from actual events that occurred in the 1600’s. Not all of the characters in the book are true, but that makes it historical fiction. Clearly, the events of (Scar.) are shown to be written proceeding the historical events that occurred in the novel. In the case of (Cruc.) the story takes place in the colony of Massachusetts, around the early 1600’s, and like (Scar.), is written over 300 years later in the 1950’s. This can be clearly proven by the background information given on the play in the stage directions. The stage directions state, “A small upper bedroom in the home of Reverend Samuel Parris, Salem, Massachusetts, in the spring of the year 1692” (Miller Act 1, lines 1-2). From this quote the setting and time of the events that take place are clearly given. The story takes place in colonial Salem MA, which is where the historical Salem witch trials occurred in the 1600’s. The Salem witch trials is the plot of the story, its historical marking and like the characters of (Scar.), not all are real. Thus making (Cruc.) a historical fiction. In the end, both texts can be proven to be historical fictions, written years after the events of the works of literature that drive the plot. One major way the (Cruc.) and (Scar.) differ in literature, is the reason for each piece of literature writing. In the example of (Scar.) reason for the author's writing of the book comes from an odd discovery of old records kept at the Customs House, where Hawthorne worked. Upon diving into a pile of loose paper and boxes the Author states, “... the object that most drew my attention… was a certain affair of fine red cloth, much worn and faded…. I had hitherto neglected to examine a small roll of dingy paper, around which it had been twisted. This I now opened and had the satisfaction to find, recorded by the old Surveyors pen, a reasonably complete explanation for the whole affair ( Hawthorne, Page 31-32 ). From this quote it is learn as explained before how the story came to be; this time however from the perspective of the author. Now it can be seen the interest that captivates the soon to be author, and motivates him to write his now famous book. The creation of the novel started with the fortunate, discovery of “legal” documents, creating an unfinished canvas, for Hawthorne to finish. The writing of (Scar.) can simply be attested to be due in part because of the fortunate discovery of an unfinished canvas ready to be finished. On the other hand, (Cruc.) is written for a different reason. The reason for Arthur Miller’s writing of (Cruc.) goes back to the Mccarthy trials and how it affected the lives of entertainers in America. During the 1950’s as stated before a hunt for “Reds” was under way. This hunt was leat by a man named Joseph Mccarthy, who believed that communism was infiltrating the United States and undermining the government. Mccarthy's trials put many innocent entertainers and many others under the potential conviction of treason. In almost a retaliation or mockery of the trials, Miller writes his play (Cruc.). This potential meaning of the play is clearly stated in a New York Times Critic of the play done in 1953. It states, “Some may argue that this is just a play about Salem, Mass., in the time of the 1692 witch hunt. Having seen it ourselves, we dissent. It is inconceivable that Miller is unaware that the year is 1953 and that a play about Salem’s witch hunt was inevitably bound to stir contemporary echoes…. Actually most of the reviewers recognized the contemporary analogy, but few of them examined its validity until the magazine critics got around to the play somewhat later….” (American Lit, Paragraph 9). It can be determined by this excerpt that Miller intended to write his play as a mockery of the Mccarthy Trials. His play (Cruc.) is a direct symbol of the Mccarthy trials as discussed in an earlier section, and show the stupidity of the who situation. Miller, was a smart man and was able to this mistake Americans were making. To reveal his feelings on the Trials he wrote (Cruc.), which, truly affected American belief in the Mccarthy trials. It is now clear to see that their was a difference in the reason of writing of both works of literature, one was political and one was curiosity driven. In conclusion, both the (Cruc.) and (Scar.) have many things both in common, yet they also share many differences. Both works of literature proved to be influential works of American literature, and have now become classics. Both works of literature have helped to define American literature,, even as undefined as it may seem. In today’s world books like (Scar.) and plays like (Cruc.) are looked upon and marveled. How is it so that these books can have such an impact on mankind, and even our culture? What kind of impacts will feature works of literature have on mankind? What will be the next renowned, piece of American literature? Who will write it and Why? Works Cited Atkinson, Brooks. "Http://www.amerlit.com/plays/PLAYS%20Miller,%20Arthur%20The%20Crucible%20(1953)%20analysis%20by%2018%20critics.pdf." Analysis of The Crucible (2015): n. pag. Google Scholar. Web. Cambell, Tyson. "The Scarlet Letter (redirected from The Scarlet Letter)." Lit215 [licensed for Non-commercial Use Only] / The Scarlet Letter. PB Works, 25 Oct. 2015. Web. Miller, Arthur. "Why I Wrote The Crucible: An Artist's Answer to Politics." New Yorker (1996).
In the crucible, I believe reputation and respect was interwoven in the term of the play the ‘‘crucible’’. Reputation and Respect can also be a theme or a thematic idea in the play, reputation is very essential in a town where social status is synonymously to ones competence to follow religious rules. Your standing is what enables you to live as one in a community where everyone is bound to rules and inevitable sequential instructions. Many characters for example, john proctor and reverend parris, base their action on the motive to protect their reputation which is only exclusive to them. People like reverend parris saw respect as what made them important or valuable in a town like Salem, this additionally imprinting to his character as a very conventional man.
In the Town of Salem Massachusetts, 1692, a group of adolescents are caught dancing in the forest. Among the adolescents in The Crucible, Abigail Williams and Mary Warren. The girls are horrified that they have been caught dancing, a sinful act, therefore they devise a story to evade punishment: they claim to have been bewitched. The first person who they accuse of witchcraft is a the black maid, Tituba. This results in her jail sentence as well as fearful suspicion throughout the town. Arthur Miller demonstrates the impact of lying as the girls recognise and manipulate their power in the town. Lead by Abigail, they go further, claiming countless others guilty and dooming them to exile. Miller demonstrates that there power is so great that even when Mary attempts to stand against her friends, she is quickly overwhelmed and once again plays along with their trickery. As the girls’ conspiracy continues, controversy arise over their truthfulness; people choose sides often lying themselves to support their side, further altering the lives of all involved.
The Crucible – Characters and Changes & nbsp; Change is good for the future. " We hear the catchy phrase everywhere. From company slogans to motivational speeches, our world seems to impose this idea that change is always a good thing. Assuming that the change is for the better, it is probably a true statement in most cases. The root of this idea seems to come from the notion that we are dissatisfied with the state that we are in, so, in order to create a more enjoyable environment, we adjust.
In The Crucible by Arthur Miller, the madness of the Salem witch trials is explored in great detail. There are many theories as to why the witch trials came about, the most popular of which is the girls' suppressed childhoods. However, there were other factors as well, such as Abigail Williams' affair with John Proctor, the secret grudges that neighbors held against each other, and the physical and economic differences between the citizens of Salem Village.
What does the word crucible mean? The word crucible means a severe test or trial. Throughout the novel, The Crucible, many of the characters go through their own crucible. These trials have a major or minor impact on the characters life throughout the novel. These trials all come together creating the story based on the calamity in America around 1952, which inspired Arthur Miller to write this well known novel. In the novel, there are many different examples from various characters about life lessons and choices. Although the book and play are very similar they do share many differences.
Great events, whether they are beneficial or tragic ones, bring change in a person. These scenarios can give one an entirely new perspective on life, and turn around his way of thinking. Events such as the Salem Witch Trials show the people involved what they could not see before. In Arthur Miller's The Crucible, Elizabeth Proctor, Reverend Hale, and John Proctor gain valuable insight into themselves, as well as others.
Do you believe in witches? In The Crucible, many people believed in the unthinkable. However, not everyone believed in witchcraft especially John Proctor, Giles Corey, and John Hale. In The Crucible ,Proctor, Giles, and Hale prove that standing up for their beliefs and being true is better than lying.
A crucible is a severe test, as of patience or belief; a trial. Another definition of the word crucible is a place, time, or situation characterized by the confluence of powerful intellectual, social, economic, or political forces. The title signifies the suffering and hardship that the town goes through.
In the novel The Crucible, by Arthur Miller, highlights a powerful drama based on the chaotic Salem Witch Trials. Salem is governed strictly where the bible is the law and anyone who doesn 't follow the law must be acquainted with the Devil. Witchcraft started by a group of girls getting caught "dancing in the woods" (Trevino). In Salem, dancing was prohibited and the girls knew they were in trouble so without thinking twice they started accusing others of being seen with the Devil. The main character in Salem is John Proctor that portrays the classic tragic hero who falls to his death. This allowed the reader to fully understand that he is a honorable, simple, virtue, and "sinner" man (Miller 19). In his lifetime, he runs into trouble with Abigail that ruined his relationship with God, his wife Elizabeth, and also damaged his self image. We see the external conflict that Miller illustrates with John and the Salem Witch Trials that is examined on his use of two tools: plot and characterization.
“It’s strange how I knew you, but I suppose you look as such a good soul should. We have all heard of your great charities in Beverly.” This quote, stated by Reverend Hale, referring to Rebecca Nurse explains how others in the town think very highly of her. Therefore, when Rebecca is accused of using witchcraft to murder Ann Putnam's babies during the Salem Witchcraft Trials, the townspeople suggest that it may be a hoax. I can relate to Rebecca Nurse because we are both greatly understanding, extremely skeptical, and very nurturing.
A wise human once stated, “People are quick to believe the bad things they hear about good people”(Unknown). Bound by the nature of humans, many are hasty to believe inaccurate accounts, no matter the circumstances, whether the accounts have evidence, or if they have any veracity to them. In Arthur Miller’s, The Crucible, the hysteric citizens of Salem, Massachusetts experience an outrageous witch hunt movement, accumulating a hefty death total of twenty citizens. The play begins with Reverend Parris, a relatively new Puritan minister in Salem, whose daughter, Betty Parris, is stuck in a coma-like state. Parris reveals that his niece Abigail, was seen dancing with Betty, and Tituba, Parris’ black slave from Barbados. Concerned about his reputation,
American president Abraham Lincoln once said, “In the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years” (www.brainyquote.com). How long someone lives does not matter more than how they live. People remember actions more than anything else. Many people have two choices in a dilemma. They have to analyze different causes and effects the choices have. People have to choose the outcome they want to be known. Just as in life, literary characters have to choose between two opposite actions and live with the consequences. In The Crucible by Arthur Miller, John Proctor faces a crucible that causes him to question whether he will live or die. Because of his crucible, Proctor feels guilt, hopeless, and satisfaction.
I, Elizabeth Proctor, am innocent. I have faced countless ridicule, discrimination, and hatred over an act that was never performed by me, near me, or around me. No one I have ever known has been a witch, and there’s no more of a reason for me to be considered one too. Sure, I have made mistakes in my life, but nothing as to which would be basis for the grounds upon me being accused of witchcraft. This is simply preposterous! I have lived a good Christian life and been god-fearing, what more do you vile accusers expect of me? I have been a good wife to a cheating husband and now will be a mother to one. Even with a delayed hanging until my baby is born, of what good will my child be, being raised without a loving mother? How will my baby be
“Well, all the plays that I was trying to write were plays that would grab an audience by the throat and not release them, rather than presenting an emotion which you could observe and walk away from.” by Arthur Miller. All great works provide a way to reach in and grab the audience through the reoccurring themes like, greed, jealousy, reputation and hypocrisy. Arthur Miller had one of those great works and it was called “The Crucible”. The play was based off of the witch trials that happened in Salem in the year of 1962. Some of the characters were actual characters involved in the witch trials. Arthur Miller wrote this play during the time of the “Red Scare”. Miller wrote The Crucible because he wanted to turn the The Salem Witch Trials into
The Crucible is an incredibly influential play no only in the fact that it displays many important themes, but it also portrays how a theocracy impacts societal actions. The Salem witch trials were the culmination of the problems with theocracy. The actions of society, not only are impacted by their personal thoughts, but also in religious undertones affect them. Act two in the play portrays not only all of these themes, but also some important events leading towards the witchcraft hysteria. Act two in the play portrays how theocracy ultimately leads to chaos.