Themes? “Theme(s)” is the single-word, ‘general’ term used to refer to a single idea. The single word “theme” does not make a specific and deeper statement about the single idea (or theme). Another way of thinking about a theme is to substitute the word “theme” for a full sentence… which states a position about… Concepts Subjects Social values and attitudes Cultural values and attitudes Political values and attitudes Core (personal) values and attitudes “Big Ideas” … in any form of text (fiction or non-fiction)/

Can you use the word “theme” in your analysis of perspectives in The Crucible? Yes – you can  However, in order to show more specific knowledge - and a deeper understanding - of the the text and its perspectives, you should try to compose clear statements about perspectives of the theme. For instance…

Option 1. Using the word ‘theme’: The Crucible, (Miller) is an allegory which explores the theme of freedom. This statement states the theme (freedom). It doesn’t state anything specific about the perspectives or attitudes about freedom. OR Option 2. Integrating terminology from Unit 4… and specific knowledge and understanding of the novel: The Crucible, (Miller) is an allegory which explores contrasting perspectives of power and individual freedom in America.

Themes… and “Perspectives”??? In your analysis of The Crucible, - your job is to: Choose the theme(s) that you “get” the most Choose the MAIN characters who develop the theme(s) you have selected Figure-out what the MAIN characters’ different perspectives are on the theme(s)  Remember… it’s the characters who have perspectives – not the events or themes!! Find and analyse the quotes that ‘show’ the different perspectives of the theme(s)

Themes: what are the different perspectives on the themes of… Wealth and capitalism Gender inequality Honesty Vs Pretense/deceit Social, religious and political power and control over the individual The tension between religion and superstition Fear and self-interest Mob hysteria and paranoia Guilt and vengeance The corrupting nature of power This list of themes and concepts is not complete. You may already have your own themes which you’re keen to explore. You will not be able to analyse ALL of these themes… choose one or two. I would advise against choosing more than three themes. FIND QUOTES TO SHOW different perspective of these themes/concepts

Individual and/or pair task: In pairs – or on your own – refer to your play to complete the following analysis tasks: Read the lead statement (in the title box). Find evidence / quotations which support the perspective of the lead statement Find evidence / quotations which offer an alternative perspective of the lead statement Identify the main literary/dramatic devices (LDD) in your evidence (simply list them ) Explain the effect of the LDDs which show – develop – represent the particular perspective.

Find and analyse evidence which supports the lead statement The Crucible is a chilling allegory of McCarthyism and the repressive culture of fear that gripped 1950’s America Quote / evidence 1: “____________________________________________ ____________________________” Literary devices in quote / evidence: ________ Effect of the literary devices in the evidence which shows this particular perspective: ___________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________

Find and analyse evidence which supports the lead statement The Crucible is a chilling allegory of McCarthyism and the repressive culture of fear that gripped 1950’s America. (cont…) Quote / evidence 2: “____________________________________________ ____________________________” Literary devices in quote / evidence: ________ Effect of the literary devices in the evidence which shows an alternative perspective: ___________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________

Find and analyse evidence which supports the lead statement The Crucible is a tragic tale of social / religious and/or political tyranny and individual conscience. Quote / evidence 1: “____________________________________________ ____________________________” Literary devices in quote / evidence: ________ Effect of the literary devices in the evidence which shows an alternative perspective: ___________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________

Find and analyse evidence which supports the lead statement The Crucible is a tragic tale of social / religious and/or political tyranny and individual conscience. (cont…) Quote / evidence 2: “____________________________________________ ____________________________” Literary devices in quote / evidence: ________ Effect of the literary devices in the evidence which shows an alternative perspective: ___________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________

Find and analyse evidence which supports the lead statement The Crucible is a dramatic exploration of social morality which is in conflict with the law. Quote / evidence 1: “____________________________________________ ____________________________” Literary devices in quote / evidence: ________ Effect of the literary devices in the evidence which shows this particular perspective: ___________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________

Find and analyse evidence which supports the lead statement The Crucible is a dramatic exploration of social morality which is in conflict with the law. Quote / evidence 2: “____________________________________________ ____________________________” Literary devices in quote / evidence: ________ Effect of the literary devices in the evidence which shows an alternative perspective: ___________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________