Final answer:
Arthur Miller's 'The Crucible' was written to critique McCarthyism by drawing parallels to the Salem witch trials, reflect on the human condition under duress, and express his personal experiences with the era's anti-Communist sentiment.
Step-by-step explanation:
Arthur Miller wrote The Crucible for several reasons, predominantly to critique and draw parallels between the Red Scare and the Salem witch trials. Miller's critique of McCarthyism provided an allegory of the time, showing how hysteria could lead to devastating consequences when unchecked. First, Miller illuminated the absurdity of the witch trials, using them as a metaphor to comment on the rampant paranoia and accusations during the McCarthy era. Secondly, he sought to reflect on the human condition, highlighting how fear and suspicion can corrupt communities and turn neighbors against each other. Lastly, his personal encounter with Congress's investigations into un-American activities influenced his portrayal of justice and reason being subverted by fear and power.