Act I
What were the girls doing in the forest? Who caught them?
Dancing naked around a fire. Rev Parris.
Who is Rev Parris most worried about?
Himself, and how his reputation is reflected by his niece and daughter. (Betty and Abigail)
What does Mary Warren give to Elizabeth?
A poppet.
Which commandment does proctor forget and why is it significant?
Though shall not commit adultery, it's ironic because he has done this.
What is the writing in italics called? What is its purpose?
Stage Directions, Stage directions are non-spoken texts that convey a wide variety of information to the actors, designers, and directors. This information can include where the scene is set, what the setting looks and sounds like, how the actors move, and what emotions should be behind the delivery of the lines
What happened between Abigail and Goody Proctor?
Abigail and John had an affair, leading to Elizabeth dismissing Abigail from their home.
What does proctor think of Parris' sermons?
He does not care for Parris, and finds his sermons gloomy, and in bad taste as Parris often asks for expensive things for the church.
What is the tone of the opening scene between Proctor and Elizabeth?
Tense!
What news does Giles bring to Proctor?
Giles says that his wife, Martha, and Rebecca Nurse have been taken to jail.
What is a theocracy?
A community where the leaders and people in power are also high ranking members of the Church.
What do the Putnams think has happened to Ruth, their daughter, and Betty, Rev Parris' daughter?
They believe they have fallen victim to witchcraft.
What does Giles ask Rev Hale? What happened to him that spurred him to ask?
He asks what signifies the reading of strange books. He forgot his prayers while his wife was reading, prompting him to think the incidents were related. Giles had just learned his prayers.
What has the town set up?
A courthouse and gallows.
What is the significance of the poppet Mary Warren brings to the house?
It is used to "frame" Elizabeth for witchcraft, as they find a needle in it and believe it to be hers.
How is scapegoating seen in Act I?
Tituba, an "outsider", being accused of witchcraft by Abigail.
Why has Rev Hale been sent for?
To uncover possible witchcraft and witches in Salem.
Who is "seen" with the devil?
Sarah Good, Goody Osburn, among others.
What is the proof that condemns Goody Osburn?
Mary accuses her of mumbling and Goody Osburn cannot name the commandments when challenged.
What does Elizabeth mean when she tells John "the magistrate sits in your heart that judges you"?
She means that Proctor: carries the knowledge of his own guilt in his heart
Define the term crucible.
-a ceramic or metal container in which metals or other substances may be melted or subjected to very high temperatures.
-a situation of severe trial, or in which different elements interact, leading to the creation of something new.
What is Parris paranoid about? (hint: it involves Proctor)
Parris believes that Proctor is conspiring against him and leading a group to usurp him.
How are the Puritans a theocracy?
the priests have all the power and influence.
What does Rev Hale ask proctor and Elizabeth in order to "test" their faith?
Their Ten Commandments.
What does Sarah Good do to save herself from hanging?
Claims to be pregnant.
What is a poppet?
A featureless doll often used for play in colonial times, although also seen as a tool of witchcraft.