The Crucible

details from the play

There are very strong similarities. For instance, Act I shows Reverend Parris arguing with his parishioners about the terms of his contract. He contends that his salary is sixty-six pounds a year, plus he is to be provided with firewood, whereas Giles Corey insists that the salary is sixty pounds, and the other six pounds are for him to buy his own firewood. Likewise today, the courts are always full of contract and labor disputes.

Another example is found in the beginning of Act II, which shows John and Elizabeth Proctor eating dinner. Their conversation is strained as "a sense of their separation rises." This strain has been present in their marriage since John confessed to her that he commited adultery with Abigail. Cheating and suspicions of cheating have put strains on many relationships.

Typically human behavior can also be seen in Danforth's manner throughout the play. From his first entrance, many of his responses show that he will tolerate nothing less than complete respect. One comment made by Marshall Herrick in Act III causes him to resent "the reflection on himself." Like many authority figures today, Danforth refuses to tolerate anything that would compromise his image in the community.