Final answer:
The Crucible is an allegorical depiction of the McCarthy era and the Red Scare, drawing parallels between the Salem Witch Trials and political witch-hunt led by Senator Joseph McCarthy. Arthur Miller's play highlights the dangers of mass hysteria and fear-mongering.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Crucible is considered an allegorical depiction of the McCarthy era and the Red Scare. Playwright Arthur Miller wrote the play in 1953, drawing parallels between the Salem Witch Trials of the 17th century and the political witch-hunt led by Senator Joseph McCarthy during the 1940s and 1950s. Miller's purpose was to highlight the dangers of mass hysteria, fear-mongering, and the infringement of civil liberties in times of social and political unrest.