Discussion Topic
Characterization and Relationships in Arthur Miller's The Crucible
Summary:
Arthur Miller's The Crucible uses characterization and relationships to explore themes of hysteria, power, and integrity. Characters such as John Proctor and Abigail Williams are central to the plot, with Proctor's moral struggle and Abigail's manipulative actions driving the conflict. Relationships between characters, like the strained marriage of John and Elizabeth Proctor, highlight personal and societal tensions during the Salem witch trials.
What are the relationships between the characters in The Crucible?
The characters in "The Crucible " are bound by their community. Living in the Puritan town of Salem in Massachusetts, their homogeneity links them to one another. Salem, itself, is a closed off community that is not diverse, but rather one that is inwardly drawn. The relationship which is also shared is one of conception of religion where individuals are seen as predisposed to sin. In this notion of predestination, there is an intense fear of "the other," and of elements which can bring with it complexity and diversity. It is in this setting where Abigail's revelations and accusations acquire even more meaning. Her charges of individuals being "witches" represent a moment where she feeds on the worst of all fears, the type of feeling that lie at the heart of all of the town residents. It is because of this connection to both belief and fear that the...
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accusations of witchcraft gain so much momentum. As the work progresses, one also notices that another connection all townspeople share is the bearing of witness ot the disintegration of the social and judicial fabric of their town and world.
Of course this is an opinionated question. Every teacher on here may differ in reference to this text as the word important suggests a value judgment.
PROCTOR/ELIZABETH: This marriage seems to hang in the balance throughout the scrutiny of the trial and the moral conflict through which Proctor fights. As Elizabeth realizes her ineffectiveness as a wife, Proctor dwells on his previous sin, both wanting to find a new wholeness. This symbolizes the plight of Purtians because to find an absolution for sin was near impossible.
ABIGAIL/PROCTOR: Abby just couldn't keep her name white in the town. Although Proctor knew it was wrong, this relationship is what much of the play hinges on. Had Proctor not denied Abby, his name and his wife's might never have come up because she would have protected him. But because she is not getting her way with him, he will fall.
PUTNAMS VS. NURSES & PROCTORS: This antagonistic relationship occured between groups. Whether the root cause of the fighting was for land or the access to the minister or for both reasons, these folks couldn't find room for agreement. I think this caused many to die because blame had to fall somewhere. This relationship also demonstrated where power reigned in Salem and what corrupt acts one had to commit in order to possess it.