The Crucible Research Paper

1047 Words3 Pages

Throughout history, many playwrights have broken the boundaries of theater and literature. Many have caused outrage and a reassessment of cemented beliefs and ideologies. However, these works have paved the way for further societal advancements and ideals for future generations. This is present in Arthur Miller’s play The Crucible, published in 1953. The play is a slightly altered retelling of the Salem Witch Trials through the eyes of John Proctor. It delves into the horrors of mass hysteria, false accusations, and the terrifying look into Puritan culture during the early colonization period. The play's history encompasses not only that of America but also that of theatre, going back to 5th-century Greece. The Crucible is filled with many …show more content…

People in Salem, Massachusetts used their religion to convict others of practicing witchcraft as they viewed the Bible and the Lord’s word as law. Moreover, the protagonist, John Proctor, is seen to resemble a tragic hero. Proctor’s pride is a hindrance as he struggles against the mass hysteria of Salem. He began as a well-respected man in the town and valued his pride greatly. However, what he valued most was his fatal flaw, which led to his demise. This is further supported by Proctor as he allies with the accused and attempts to clear their names. Although it may not seem so, the influences of Greek theater are still prevalent, even in American literature. Building off Miller’s use of Greek tragedy for The Crucible, he implements realism to, not only, further build the impact of the book but also to connect with modern audiences. Miller’s writing style utilizes realism to “[present] situations.as they are presented in real life” (Tewari). This writing style removes any influence of false hope or optimism, but presents the situation with the harsh truth many attempt to …show more content…

Furthermore, the dialogue between the characters also feels true to the speech that would’ve been present during the witch trials. The elements of realism utilized by Miller create a dramatic and horrifying reality of the Salem witch trials that no one can escape from. As mentioned, Miller based The Crucible on the real-life Salem witch trials as his plot. The Salem witch trials began in the Spring of 1692 and lasted until early 1693. A group of young girls claimed they’d been possessed by the devil and accused others of inciting this. This began a mass hysteria in the town of Salem, in which, many people were falsely accused of practicing witchcraft. During this time, more than 150 innocent people were executed on the chance they were practicing witchcraft. Miller is a slightly altered telling of these events through the eyes of real people who participated in the Salem witch trials. Furthermore, Miller utilized the events in Salem as symbolism for the anti-communist rhetoric and happenings during the early

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