Question

Explain how miller conveys a major theme of the play through the resolution of proctors moral dilemma about whether to confess. support your response with evidence from the text

Answer 1

Arthur Miller's play 'The Crucible' uses John Proctor's resolution to not falsely confess to witchcraft to convey the theme of personal integrity versus societal reputation. Proctor's choice highlights the value of truth and individual conscience in the midst of social hysteria, mirroring the McCarthy era's tactics.

Step-by-step explanation:

Arthur Miller, in The Crucible, conveys a major theme through the resolution of John Proctor's moral dilemma about whether to confess to witchcraft. Proctor's ultimate refusal to save his life by falsely admitting to witchcraft underlines the play's central theme: the importance of personal integrity over societal reputation. This theme is evident when Proctor exclaims, "Because it is my name! ... I cannot have another in my life!" This moment embodies the struggle between truth and falsehood, between maintaining one's integrity and giving in to the pressures of a society that has lost its moral compass. Miller's depiction of this struggle not only reflects the hysteria of the Salem witch trials but also comments on the climate of his own time, paralleling the accusations during the McCarthy era.

By choosing execution over a false confession, Proctor asserts his belief in truth and individual moral judgment, making a powerful statement against the corruption and hysteria surrounding him. Miller presents this resolution to demonstrate that personal honor and truth are worth more than life itself, especially in the face of unjust social forces. The resolution of Proctor's conflict serves as a reminder of the dangers of a society that values conformity and accusations over evidence and individual conscience.

Answer 2

Miller uses the Salem Witch Trials in 1692 as the setting for his play. In the play, he shows what happens when logic and reason disappear and hysteria takes over. Proctor confesses orally to witchcraft, but refuses to implicate anyone else. Danforth informs him that the court needs proof of his confession in the form of a signed, written testimony. Proctor confesses verbally to witchcraft, and Rebecca Nurse hears the confession. She is shocked by Proctor's actions, and she still refuses to confess to witchcraft. Proctor signs his name to the confession, but destroys the document when he learns the court will post it on the church door.

Step-by-step explanation: