The Crucible

A Provocative Read

Arthur Miller's The Crucible is a work that successfully connects two different time periods to create a poignant look at reputation and honesty within society. Set in a strict Puritan town in the late 1600s, The Crucible tells the story of John Proctor's fight against deception. The town of Salem, MA is plagued with accounts of witchcraft causing mass hysteria as well as a general distrust amongst neighbors lead by the young Abigail Williams, who manipulates the God-fearing public with claims that many of the citizens are, in fact, partners with the devil. Proctor, Williams' former master, seems invulnerable to the struggle until Williams turns her gaze upon Proctor's wife, Elizabeth, and claims her to be a witch. It is with this allegation that Williams hopes to rid Proctor of Elizabeth and claim him as her own, as the two had a short-lived affair while she was working within his home. Proctor valiantly defends his wife and other innocent citizens in court, but quickly finds his plans for freedom to be foiled as he himself is accused as being a witch. With the promise of death before him, Proctor reflects upon his past sins and finds the determination to defend the honor of his neighbors and himself. The Crucible is a substantial piece in that it speaks out against persecution in society and promotes resistance toward discrimination. This is connected to the 1950s, where fear of Communist factions within the country gripped citizens prompting for "witch hunts" against Communists across the country, leading to general distrust and paranoia. Few were able to stand against the judgmental government, yet some like Miller, Proctor's modern counterpoint, were able to take a stand. It is with such a correlation that shows the importance of this piece; as a viewpoint against persecution, discrimination, and destruction of reputation inside society, whether it is Puritanical or democratic.

0 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

poignant

The Crucible is, as a good play should be, poignantly simple and like a gem in its ability to fit a handful of major themes into a single, brief text. It offers brilliant social commentary that, though startlingly true and relevant to its own time, is just as relevant to the 1950s, when it was written, as well as today. Miller not only explores but breathes life and fire into the major themes in this book. The darker recesses of the human mind he exposes to the light, and for this I know that I am all the more richer in experience and knowledge.

Distinct characterization makes an engaging novel

Set in the time of the Salem Witch Trials, The Crucible illustrates a recurring theme of human nature: the most strong-willed individuals would choose a glorious death over a shameful life. Reminiscent of Sophocles¿ tragic heroes, the protagonist John Proctor attests to the fatality of excessive pride, as he opts for the preservation of honor over life in his refusal to taint his good name with a confession to witchcraft. Arthur Miller¿s use of strong diction to demonstrate Proctor¿s resolve best characterizes the protagonist as an individual ruined by overwhelming pride. Rebelling against society¿s resignation to injustice, Proctor, although honorable in his intentions, proves rash in the execution of his plans, ultimately acting as testament to no more than the power of pride to destroy. Defiant in his final stand, Proctor never hesitates to reconsider his options. Instead of taking a different, more logical course requiring the compromise of his pride, he firmly asserts that his name shall remain pure and honorable, whatever the cost.

Miller¿s masterful diction distinctly separates Proctor from others faced with similar fates. Proctor¿s disdain at social injustice is most clearly expressed in his word choice, as he labels the judges ¿dogs¿ and mocks their denial of reality with his personal testimony of knowledge. Firm in his position, Proctor derides the judges and all those who acquiesced to injustice, referring to his own courage as a ¿marvel¿ unparalleled in society. The use of distinct diction as parts of the dialogue helps to set Proctor apart from society, emphasizing his defiance in the midst of quiet resignation. Thus, the characters are enhanced with distinct traits, making the plot all the more believable.

The chaotic atmosphere created by Miller most appropriately suits a novel recounting the hysteria of the Salem Witch Trials. Best conveyed through effective syntax, the frenzy of the court is reflected in Hale¿s desperate protests to Danforth. His initial composure is transient, and eventually decays to hopeless, ineffective pleas, urging the undoing of damages caused by the witch trials. Recognizing the full extent of his mistake, Hale frantically struggles to prevent the growth of the injustice. This panic is best reflected in the syntax of his quotations, as the use of exclamation and short sentences demonstrate desperation and breathlessness, both of which are attributed to the general hysteria surrounding the random accusations and large-scale executions.

Miller possesses a talent for characterization through specific diction and syntax, instilling in his audience a sense of anxiety appropriate for the topic of his novel. Packed with emotion and distinct personalities, this book is an engaging read and fascinating retelling of history.

Arthur Miller's "The Crucible"

The Crucible is about the Salem Witch Trials that occurred in Salem, Massachusetts. Things get out of and when a few girls from the town are seen 'dancing and conjuring up spririts'. People began to get accused of witchcraft and the town's structure begins to detoriate. Then, to make things worse, it is revealed that one of the girls involved in the chaos is in love with a married man. In order to try and obtain his love, she won't let anything get in her way.
The Crucible has a decent storyline, in my opinion, but it didn't really present it to my liking. I felt as though the only 'action' in it, was when people argued. It was a little slow-paced for me. I suppose, overall, it is a good read, it just wasn't my favorite. It's worth going though once.

Idea behind the book

This book is really great, demonstrating the consequences of mass hysteria and fear shown through the Salem witch trials. Miller wrote this play as SOCIAL COMMENTARY on the 'witch trials' in the time he wrote the play in, MCCARTHYISM!

Do your homework

Ah...i'm sorry but YOU are incorrect. Arthur Miller wrote the play, the crucible, to attack what McCarthy was doing during his time in office. McCarthy was doing his own 'witch hunt' for communists in America...which is what happened in Salem. So, this is why Miller wrote the play to link the Salem Witch Hunts to what McCarthy was doing...i hate people who dont do their homework

Annotation

the annotation over to the side is inncorect. Joseph McCarthy did not have anything to do with the Salem witch trials, cosidering they happened 300 years before his time. McCarthyism was about arresting people on suspision of communistic actions. However the play itself is wonderful. i'd highly recommend it.

No text was provided for this review.

No text was provided for this review.

No text was provided for this review.

No text was provided for this review.