1. The Crucible---Study Guide, Act III
The Crucible---Study Guide: Act III Name________________
GETTING AT MEANING
Why do Giles Corey, Francis Nurse, and John Proctor want to testify? In what ways do their testimonies have the opposite effect to that intended?
What does Danforth suspect is John Proctor’s real reason for coming to court? Why does learning about Elizabeth’s pregnancy make Danforth even more suspicious?
Why does Danforth hold Giles Corey in contempt of court and what is Corey’s reason for not talking?
In what sense would Abigail and Putnam be guilty of attempted murder if the girls were merely pretending to be bewitched?
What makes Mary Warren rejoin Abigail and the other girls at the end of the act?
CRITICALTHINKING & EVALUATING
Why does Elizabeth tell Danforth that her husband is not a lecher? Support your response.
How does Miller convey to the audience the terrible irrationality of witch trials?
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2. The Crucible---Study Guide, Act III
CRITICALTHINKING & EVALUATING
Why is Elizabeth’s lie to Danforth ironic? What is ironic about John Proctor’s confession and his later arrest?
What changes can be seen in the character of John Hale between his first appearance in Act I and his exit in Act III?
How do the events in this act illustrate the theme that in a climate of fear, basic human rights are often endangered? (HINT: Be specific by identifying examples of injustice in this act.)
Miller’s stage directions in Act I describe Abigail as having “an endless capacity for dissembling.” In what ways do her actions support that exact description of her as a character? (HINT: How does Abigail change her manner in Act I according to whom she is talking to? How does she act in court when she’s accused of lying?)
REFLECTION:
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