Crucible Essay

Crucible, a severe test or trial. This definition relates to The Crucible, a play by Arthur Miller based on the McCarthy trials in the 1500’s. The denotation of crucible is crucial since it signifies the statements and actions of John Proctor. John Proctor is a character who is tested morally, emotionally, and decisively throughout the dilemma occurring in Salem, Massachusetts. Proctor was intensely tested in his morals and beliefs. His loyalty to the church was questioned by the authority of Danforth since it was thought that he had wanted to overthrow the court. Even though he knew he was a devout Gospel Christian, proving himself to the bitter accusations and preconceptions of the court was not easy. This test was severe because if the court takes umbrage at ones morals, they judge the person accordingly. Not only was Proctor tested morally, but emotionally as well. His rejection from Elizabeth was a major issue towards the severity of his trial of emotion. Elizabeth’s loss of faith in her husband left Proctor testifying for Elizabeth to stop judging him. Moreover, her inert attitude when Proctor was deciding whether or not to give in to witchcraft made Proctor feel weak. He was particularly tested when he didn’t receive a response he was hoping to hear, which left him all to himself. Above all, Proctor was tested decisively. His decision to confess to the act of adultery with Abigail was essential and exemplified his views on saving those who were falsely accused in the trials. Proctor thought that admitting to his affair would change the minds of the authority and make them not believe the pretense of Abigail. This was the ultimate test to see if Proctor would either save the whole community of Salem by admitting the truth, or save him by keeping the truth to himself. Proctor was once again tested when he was deciding whether or not to give into witchcraft. The severity of the test was to show if Proctor would stand by what he believed in, or if he