Witchcraft is a central theme in The Crucible, driving the plot and character motivations. The fear of witchcraft permeates the Salem community, leading to hysteria and tragedy. The characters' belief in witchcraft is fueled by personal grievances, superstitions, and societal pressures, ultimately resulting in false accusations and the unraveling of the community.

The initial act of dancing in the woods by the girls, led by Tituba, is seen as a crime because it is associated with superstitious rituals. In Salem, such acts are considered severe sins and illegal due to their religious principles. The girls' actions, including conjuring spirits and drinking charms to harm Elizabeth Proctor, are perceived as witchcraft, intensifying the fear and suspicion in the town.

Ann Putnam's belief in witchcraft is deeply personal, stemming from the loss of her seven infants. She suspects Goody Osburn, her midwife, of cursing her children, a belief reinforced by Tituba's accusations. This personal tragedy and the general hysteria in Salem provide Ann with a scapegoat for her losses, despite the lack of evidence.

In Act 1, various situations are attributed to witchcraft, such as the mysterious illnesses of Betty Parris and Ruth Putnam, and the confessions of Tituba and Abigail Williams. These confessions, often made under duress, lend credibility to the witchcraft accusations, creating a climate of fear and revenge. The court's acceptance of spectral evidence, where mere accusations suffice for conviction, further fuels the hysteria.

Thomas Putnam's insistence on discussing witchcraft is driven by personal vendettas and greed. He uses the witch trials to settle scores and acquire land from those accused. His wife's belief in witchcraft, due to the loss of her children, provides him with additional justification for his actions. The Putnams' involvement in the witch trials highlights how personal motives can exploit communal fears for personal gain.