The Crucible Group
Question:
hellan
Student
High School - 12th Grade
In "The Crucible" is there effective communication between Elizabeth & John when they argue over Abigail?
thanks
Answers:
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gbeatty Teacher
College - FreshmanPosted by gbeatty on Wednesday July 9, 2008 at 3:42 PMNo. At least, there is not effective, clear, and direct communication. The two know each other well, and can communicate a lot in a few brief exchanges. There's a lot of emotion flying back and forth in this argument. However, they aren't good at communicating directly. There are several reasons for this. The simplest is lack of skill, but the most important reason is that the subject is tied up with matters of such importance for them. John's desire for Abigail is sinful in their world, and Abigail's influence over him suspect.
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pmiranda2857 Teacher
High School - 11th GradePosted by pmiranda2857 on Saturday July 12, 2008 at 4:42 AMThe communication between John and Elizabeth is charged with resentment, guilt and shame over John's affair with Abigail Williams.
"The tension between John and Elizabeth is thick as they sit down to dinner. While unfailingly polite, their relationship is visibly strained."
"Elizabeth, continues to interrogate and to accuse. Her judgment of her husband lacks mercy and understanding."
Elizabeth wants John to go to the court and tell the officials what Abigail told him about the girls dancing in the woods being innocent, but he does not want to get involved in this way.
John resents the authority of the church, and fears what will happen to his name if the community finds out about his affair with Abigail. Elizabeth wants him to tell the truth and be moral.