Act 1: Salem Secrets
What caused Betty’s strange affliction at the start of the play?
She’s frightened after being caught in the forest
What commandment does John forget when tested by Hale?
“Thou shalt not commit adultery”
What does Danforth mean by “We burn a hot fire here”?
The court reveals all lies
How was Giles Corey executed?
Pressed to death
What theme focuses on grudges leading to false accusations?
Vengeance and accusation
What is Reverend Parris’s main concern about the witchcraft rumors?
His reputation
Why is John hesitant to expose Abigail’s lies?
He fears his affair will be revealed
How is Danforth being unintentionally ironic when he says “You are either with this court or against it”?
Answers will vary
Why does Danforth want Proctor’s confession?
Proctor is respected and influential
Which historical event inspired Miller to write The Crucible?
The Red Scare/McCarthyism
What tragic event haunts Mrs. Putnam’s dreams?
She’s lost seven babies
What does finding the poppet in Elizabeth’s house symbolize?
Abigail’s plan to frame Elizabeth
What does Giles Corey refuse to do that makes him brave?
He won’t name names
Why does Elizabeth show no emotion when asked to save John?
An act of defiance against the court; pride and resistance
What overall message does Miller give about hysteria?
Fear destroys reason and justice
What does Abigail threaten to do if the girls tell the truth about the forest?
“Pointy reckoning”—stab them in their sleep
What emotion best describes John and Elizabeth’s relationship in Act II?
Strained and cold
Why does Elizabeth lie about John’s affair?
To protect John
What does Hale mean when he warns “cleave to no faith when faith brings blood”?
He regrets blind religious zeal
What does the “crucible” symbolize in the title?
A severe test that reveals character
What best describes John and Abigail’s feelings in Act I?
Abby longs for him; John resists
What theme does Proctor’s “vengeance is walking Salem” speech highlight?
People are using accusations for revenge
What does Proctor’s “A fire is burning!” speech reveal about him?
He admits his guilt and condemns hypocrisy
Why won’t John sign his confession?
He won’t live a lie
How does Miller describe Salem in his analogy about a “petri dish”?
Society consumed by fear and imagination