Final answer:
In Arthur Miller's play 'The Crucible', Abigail accuses Tituba of witchcraft, likely to divert suspicion from her own actions and to exploit the societal fear of witchcraft for personal power.
Step-by-step explanation:
The character Abigail accuses Tituba of witchcraft in Arthur Miller's play The Crucible, which takes place during the Salem Witch Trials. At that time, belief in the supernatural was prevalent; many disasters were attributed to the devilish influences of witchcraft, often resulting in the persecution of women who were seen as susceptible.
Abigail, in making the accusation, was likely influenced by societal pressures and personal motivations. She had a reputation to uphold in the society and any suspicion of oddity or defiance of traditional roles often led to accusations of sorcery. By accusing Tituba, she managed to divert attention from herself and her own questionable actions.
Additionally, manipulation of the fear and superstition prevalent in the society would have provided Abigail with a significant amount of power. The accusations against Tituba were a means to exercise control, possibly out of fear of exposure or punishment for her own actions.
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