The Crucible *WIDER READING NOTES*

The Crucible - Arthur Miller

What is it about?
Set in Salem USA in 1692, The Crucible tells the story of John Proctor, and the consequences of his affair with a girl named Abigail. Abigail is convinced that John Proctor loves her, and so sets out to get rid of his wife by accusing her as a witch.

This occurs amongst a frenzy of women accusing other women of being witches, and mass panic as a result of their strict puritan religion. The residents are convinced that the Devil is among them, and are sending innocent women to death as a result of this.

Themes:

• Religion: The entire town are strict puritans, constantly engrossed in prayer. "They did not celebrate Christmas, and a holiday from work meant only that they must concentrate even more upon prayer."
• Fear: The witch trials occur as a result of fear, as no one…