Final answer:
Arthur Miller redeemed himself with 'The Crucible,' which indirectly criticized McCarthyism by drawing parallels to the Salem Witch Trials, portraying the perils of persecution and elevating ordinary people's struggles, thus democratizing theatre and engaging with the American national conversation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Author Arthur Miller, through his play The Crucible, indirectly criticized Senator Joseph McCarthy's ruthless anti-Communist methods by drawing parallels between the Cold War hysteria and the Salem Witch Trials of the 17th century. By portraying characters in his drama that are punished or ostracized for seeking evidence and exhibiting skepticism towards fantastical accusations, Miller conveyed a powerful message about the dangers of ideologically-driven persecution and guilt by association.
The redemption of Miller's reputation came from his ability to democratize theatre and inject universal themes of despair and hopelessness into the plight of ordinary people, situating him in the American national conversation and as a bulwark against the tyranny of McCarthyism.