Final Answer:
Hale appears at the Proctor home to question the family in relation to the accusations of witchcraft in Salem. Prior to visiting the Proctor home, he had just visited the home of Rebecca Nurse, another accused individual.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Arthur Miller's play "The Crucible," Reverend Hale visits the Proctor home as part of his investigation into the accusations of witchcraft in Salem. His role is that of an expert on witchcraft, and he questions individuals to determine the presence of supernatural elements. Before arriving at the Proctor home, Hale had just visited the home of Rebecca Nurse, another individual accused of witchcraft.
Hale's visit to the Proctor home is prompted by the intensifying hysteria surrounding witchcraft accusations in Salem. As a respected authority on such matters, Hale takes it upon himself to assess the situation and investigate the claims.
His visit to Rebecca Nurse's home suggests the widespread nature of the accusations, and he continues his inquiries by questioning the Proctor family. The dynamics between Hale, the accused individuals, and the broader context of the witch trials form a central theme in the play, reflecting the societal paranoia and injustice prevalent during the Salem witch trials.
The character of Reverend Hale undergoes significant development throughout the play, transitioning from a staunch believer in the witch trials to a more critical and morally conflicted figure. His visits to various homes, including the Proctor residence, contribute to the unfolding narrative, exposing the flaws and consequences of the witch trials and the impact on the lives of those accused.
Overall, Hale's appearance at the Proctor home is a crucial plot point that advances the exploration of themes such as morality, justice, and the destructive nature of mass hysteria.