Final answer:
The land dispute between Putnam and Proctor in 'The Crucible' reflects themes of greed and corruption, with Proctor characterizing Putnam as manipulative. The conflict also echoes the historical context of colonial land disputes, such as those during the Pequot War.
Step-by-step explanation:
The land dispute between Putnam and Proctor is a subplot in Arthur Miller's play, 'The Crucible.' The disagreement centers around land ownership and reflects the broader themes of greed and corruption within the community. Proctor accuses Putnam of using the witch trials as a way to seize land from those who are convicted. This accusation illuminates Putnam's character as someone who is manipulative and driven by self-interest. The historical backdrop of tension between settlers and native populations, as highlighted in the Pequot War, underlines the colonists' differing views on land use and ownership compared to the native populations.
John Proctor tells us that Thomas Putnam is known for his avaricious behavior and propensity to engage in land disputes, often taking advantage of the turmoil within the village to enrich himself. Proctor's view of Putnam reflects the context of the Puritan values and the settlement expansion that led to conflicts such as the Pequot War, showcasing the varying perspectives on land rights between settlers and indigenous populations.