Introduction

The Crucible remains of the most intriguing and timeless tales with themes, characters, and events compared to almost every period of human history. The relevance of this novel has never faded since its dramatization. The Crucible was written in 1953 by Arthur Miller, a renowned play writer in America. He establishes that the play is about the Salem witch trials, a period in the history of America that occurred in Salem, Massachusetts. Moreover, the play is seen as a metaphor for McCarthyism (The McCarthy-era) in 1950 during which organized series of interrogations were carried out by U.S. Senator Joseph McCarthy, as he then was. It is still one of the most significant works of literature because it is particularly rich in themes that are constantly relevant to human beings irrespective of the time. The Crucible themes essay will highlight the importance reputation and hysteria and how the two themes relate to one another.

Theme 1: Reputation

Peoples concern for their reputation looms large in the play. For instance, it is evident in Act 1 that Reverend Parris is worried about his reputation. Initially, he asserts that there is no unnatural causes for the illnesses affecting Betty. However, he fears losing favor with the township if they discover witchcraft in his household. Parris interrogates Abigail belligerently because he is concerned his enemies may learn about recent happenings in the in the woods and utilize it to discredit his reputation. Although actions by people are frequently motivated by desires for revenge, power, and fear, they are always concerned about the impact of losing their reputations and the effect it has on their lives. Additionally, Abigail is also greatly concerned by her societal reputation. Abigail appears infuriated when Parris questions her apprehensive dismissal from the Proctor household. She denies any wrongdoing and insists that the blame is on Elizabeth Proctor. Reputation can be seen in the following quote. Abigail says My name is good in the village! I will not have it said my name is soiled! Goody Proctor is a gossiping liar! (Miller, 26) From this quote, it is clear that bad reputation has the ability of damaging the position of an individual in the society and often at times may be severe and irreparable. This prompts individuals to defend their reputations at all costs. Moreover, when Rebecca Nurse is accused and arrested, her reputation is damaged because previously she positioned herself as an unimpeachable woman. Things get out of control as manifested by the following line: "if Rebecca Nurse can also be tainted, then nothing's left to stop the whole green world from burning." (Miller, 62)

---------END OF DOCUMENT PREVIEW, PURCHASE TO VIEW THE WHOLE DOCUMENT-----------