The Salem witch trials were conducted under a theocratic government influenced by Puritan beliefs, where prominent figures like Cotton Mather legitimized fears of witchcraft leading to the execution of nineteen people.
During the witch trials in Salem, the government reflects a theocratic and authoritarian structure in Arthur Miller's play "The Crucible." Theocratic, as the legal system is deeply intertwined with religious principles, and authoritarian, given the intense control exercised by figures like Deputy Governor Danforth. The government's role is pivotal in driving the action, as the trials are initiated and sustained by the authorities in an attempt to purge the community of perceived witchcraft.
Theocratic principles dictate the legal proceedings, and individuals like Reverend Hale hold significant influence. The government's power is wielded with rigidity, suppressing dissent and stifling rational discourse. This oppressive system not only instigates the witch trials but also exacerbates hysteria, highlighting how unchecked authority can lead to injustice and the manipulation of fear for political purposes.
Theocratic governance intertwines the spiritual and legal, creating an environment where personal vendettas and ulterior motives thrive under the guise of religious purity.