‘The Crucible’ Structure

Act One Established the atmosphere of tension and uncertainty Gives impression of a disturbed town. Introduction of characters Events happen so quickly that the audience are unsure about what Abigail’s motives are and whether the events that are happening are truly as a result of witchcraft or not. Leads audience to look for some sort of resolution in the following acts.

Act Two Opens on a much quieter note which contrast with act one. Introduced to obvious tensions between Proctor and Elizabeth. Any time we get a sense that this tension may ease, something happens to increase it once more. Miller achieves suspense through raising our hopes and then quickly dashing them (also happens when we think Elizabeth is in danger.) As the intensity of the quarrels between the characters increases, the act again ends on a note of hysteria. Although act is more focused on the couple, other characters do more in and out, but it contrasts the high number that were on stage during act one. We are made aware, particularly through the constant references to Rebecca Burse, the widespread panic spreading through the town. (remember this is where the removed scene with Abigail would have appeared)

Act Three Primarily focus on confusion of the town’s folk. Opens nosily with Corey being removed from the courtroom Ends, once again, on a note of hysteria. At this point we truly realise the real implications of the accusations. Danforth’s enquiry is constantly interrupted by other characters. This wait impacts on Mary Warren and when she is finally allowed to speak she begins to lose confidence, particularly when Abigail turns on her. Turning point for Proctor here as he must publicly confess to his infidelity and as such deal with the confidences

Act Four Opens in a confusing manner as Tituba and Sarah Good are reintroduced for no apparent reason. This acts allows John to fulfil his role as the play’s hero, consenting to his own death by choosing his moral principles over his life. Generally calmer than the previous acts as we move towards the events that now feel inevitable. Also allows Miller to resolve the relationship between John and Elizabeth. Ending is somewhat disappointing to audience who are hoping that the wrong-doers will be exposed, however, it seems more convincing by not going down this route.

‘The Crucible’ Mood

Mood The play does seem very concerned with the ideas behind it, maybe more so than the characters. You can see, however, there has been a clear attempt by Miller to humanise them Use of language is important when considering mood; Miller takers every day language and gives it an archaic twist so as to contextualise it for the audience. One person stated: ‘ The Crucible, in short, is a play of great richness, more complex and more evocative than it may at first seem, restrained and yet powerful, and proceeding from an intensity of conviction on the part of the author.’