Act One
John Proctor hasn't gone to church in some time. What is his explanation?
He doesn't like the negative preaching of Reverend Parris.
What commandment does John Proctor forget when reciting the commandments?
Thou shalt not commit adultery.
What is the significance of the phrase “God is dead!” in Act 3?
John Proctor is frustrated as he sees the corruption of the court and the madness of the trials.
Is Hale a static or dynamic character? Why?
Dynamic because he once thought that Salem was filled with witches and he needed to cleanse the town, but now he thinks that he was wrong and the girls lied.
How does Giles die?
He was pressed to death with stones.
Abby insists that the girls are silent about her attempts to witch John Proctor's wife. What does she threaten to do?
What does John forgetting the commandment tell us about his character?
He feels guilty for breaking his marriage vows.
Why does Elizabeth lie about John's affair with Abigail?
She doesn't want to endanger John.
Why did Danforth bring Elizabeth to John?
To have Elizabeth convince him to confess.
What is John Proctor's relationship with Thomas Putnam?
Proctor sees Putnam as greedy and arrogant.
What has Goody Putnam lost in her life that "twists her soul and haunts her dreams?"
7 seemingly healthy babies to an inexplicable death.
In addition to not attending church, what does Hale see as "softness" in John Proctor?
He hasn't had his child baptized
At this point in the play, John is a static/dynamic character. Why?
He is dynamic because he is learning and growing by accepting his guilt and the role that he has played in the tragedy.
How does Elizabeth feel about John's decision to be hanged rather than confess?
She is proud of his goodness. He refuses to lie and would rather die than commit this sin.
What is Tituba's role in "The Crucible" play?
A. She uses her knowledge of spells to help Rev. Parris
B. She knowingly tries to get the girls in trouble
C. She does not have an important role in the play
D. She was using her knowledge of spells to entertain and help the girls
She was using her knowledge of spells to entertain and help the girls
Who does Abigail initially blame for Betty being witched?
Tituba
What is the significance of the poppet in act two?
It was considered evidence of witchcraft. It had a needle in the side and Abigail was found stabbed with a needle in her side.
Giles is surprisingly skilled in matters of the law. Why?
He has been to the court many times.
How does Parris offering cider to Proctor while he is in the prison a sign of Parris feeling guilt?
It demonstrates a superficial attempt to alleviate his conscience while simultaneously failing to address the real harm he has inflicted on Proctor.
Which character is the main antagonist in The Crucible and manipulates others to accuse people of witchcraft?
Abigail Williams
How does Arthur Miller use the character of Reverend Parris to explore the theme of reputation in the Puritan society? In what ways does Parris's concern for his reputation drive the events of the play?
Answers may vary
In Act 2, John Proctor expresses his guilt for not intervening in Abigail's earlier actions. How does Proctor’s internal conflict about his role in the witch trials contribute to the development of his character and the broader themes of guilt and redemption?
Answers may vary. Some include: Proctor's character arc reflects the consequences of the failure to act and the need for moral courage in the face of collective hysteria.
A. "No uncorrupted man may fear this court!"
B. "You must understand, sir, that a person is either with this court or he must be counted against it, there be no road in between."
C. "Mr. Hale, you surely do not doubt my justice."
"You must understand, sir, that a person is either with this court or he must be counted against it, there be no road in between."
This is considered a false dilemma. He is presenting only two options, though other options are available such as staying neutral.
Why does Danforth want Proctor to confess so badly?
John Proctor is respectable and has influence over other people.
Name Danforth's views on the witch trials. Do his views change over time?
Danforth presides over the witch trials, believing firmly in the righteousness of the court. He is a static character.