What Does Martha Cory Symbolize In The Crucible

The Meaning behind the name Of the over 40,000 words brilliantly crafted into a story, only two are able of capturing the meaning of Arthur Miller's play, The Crucible. Set in Salem, Massachusetts during the witch trials, Miller depicts the town and the strong puritan values vested in its people. When accusations of witchcraft run ravage through the streets, such puritan purity is in question. The Crucible is a fitting title for Arthur Miller’s play.The English noun crucible symbolizes Salem, the trials and the resulting changes that occur.
To start, a crucible being defined as a vessel that can withstand high temperatures is symbolic of Salem. Miller describes the unity of Salem under its Theocracy. He says, “ a combine of state and religious power whose function was to keep the community together, and to prevent any kind of disunity.” (1.1.l0). The stressed value of unity in
Like many of the characters, Martha Cory is on trial for witchcraft. Danforth interrogates, “ There is abundant evidence in our lands to show that you have given yourself to the readings of fortunes. Do you deny it”(3.1.1-4). Another definition of Crucible is an extreme test or trial. Martha Cory is on trial for her life as she denies committing sorcery. In addition to physical trials, many morals and personal values are tested throughout Salem. John Procter after refusing to sign his confession proclaims,“Because it is my name! Because I cannot have another in my life! Because I lie and sign myself to lies! Because I am not worth the dust on the feet of them that hang! How may I live without my name? I have given you my soul; leave me my name!”(4.1. 290). Throughout the novel, Procter struggles to overcome his sins. He is at war with himself for wanting to live by betraying his friends. Many puritans are incapable of balancing their moral values and what is needed to