Characters & Relationships
Who is John Proctor's wife?
Elizabeth Proctor
In what town does The Crucible take place?
Salem
What is the overarching theme of The Crucible?
The Danger of Hysteria: Fear can spiral into chaos.
What does the play criticize about 1950s America?
McCarthyism and the Red Scare.
Who says, "Because it is my name! Because I cannot have another in my life!"
John Proctor
Which character is the servant of the Proctor household and involved in the accusations?
Mary Warren
What item of Elizabeth’s is used to accuse her of witchcraft?
A poppet (doll)
What does the theme of Justice vs. Revenge suggest?
The pursuit of justice can be corrupted by personal vendettas
What is the significance of the poppet found in the Proctor household?
The manipulation of evidence and hysteria.
Who says, "We burn a hot fire here; it melts down all concealment"?
Deputy Governor Danforth
Who is the niece of Reverend Parris and a central figure in the witch trials?
Abigail Williams
What confession does John Proctor make in court to undermine Abigail?
He confesses to having an affair with Abigail.
Which theme is shown through the characters of the judges?
The Abuse of Power: Authority can be destructive when unchecked.
How is the title The Crucible symbolic?
The severe tests and trials faced by the characters under intense pressure.
What does Abigail mean when she says, “Let either of you breathe a word... and I will bring a pointy reckoning that will shudder you”?
She is threatening the other girls to stay silent about their lies.
What is Giles Corey’s famous last line?
"More weight."
What does Elizabeth lie about in court?
John’s affair with Abigail.
How does The Crucible explore the theme of reputation?
Characters like John Proctor and Reverend Parris are deeply concerned about their public image.
What does the forest symbolize in Puritan society?
The unknown, danger, and a space where societal norms are challenged
Analyze the quote: "I have given you my soul; leave me my name!"
Proctor refuses to sign a false confession, even though it means he will be executed. Proctor is willing to die rather than lie and ruin his name.
Who is the character that acts as a voice of reason but is ignored in court?
Reverend Hale
What happens to John Proctor at the end of the play?
He is hanged for refusing to confess to witchcraft.
What theme is illustrated by the idea that confessing to lies can save your life?
Reputation, Integrity, & Survival: Sometimes, maintaining personal integrity and reputation comes at the cost of survival.
How is John Proctor’s name a symbol of his integrity?
Proctor values his name and legacy over his life.
Who says, "The Devil is precise; the marks of his presence are definite as stone"? What does it reflect?
Reverend Hale; it reflects his initial belief in the witch trials' validity.