The Crucible By Arthur Miller

Author: Arthur Miller Wrote Death of a Salesman (1949)—won a Pulitzer Prize Then, wrote The Crucible (1953) Due to The Crucible, was investigated for Communist ties Called to court by HUAC (House Un-American Activities Committee)—testified about self, but refused comment on acquaintances/friends

Setting of Play Salem, Massachusetts (A Puritan Community) 1692

Puritan Values Prayer/church attendance/no work on Sabbath Hard work Somber attitudes Women Read Bible, but nothing else Keep house No political rights

Salem, Massachusetts Historical Background—How It Began 1692 Mid-Jan. Abigail Williams and her 9-year-old cousin Betty showing signs of illness Minister brought in to observe them By Feb. Talk of witchcraft had spread End of Feb. Formal complaint accusing several women of afflicting young girls in community

Salem, Massachusetts Historical Background—How It Ended 150 people jailed 20 people executed

Causes behind witchcraft accusations: Harsh living conditions (fires, drought, insect infestations, etc.)—attributed to the devil Social tension Economic ($) tension Mass hysteria

Real Puritans vs. The Crucible Characters John Proctor 60 yrs. old Farmer/tavern owner Maintained innocence until death John Proctor 30 yrs. old Farmer Maintained innocence from witchcraft; guilty in other ways

Real Puritans vs. The Crucible Characters Abigail Williams 11 yrs. old Orphaned Suspected reason for accusations—liked the attention Abigail Williams 17 yrs. old Orphaned Reason for accusations—in love with John Proctor/wanted his wife out of the way

Crucible definitions: Fire-proof container in which metals are heated at high temperatures A severe trial or test