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An Introduction to The Crucible by Arthur Miller

"Explore the witch trials of Salem, Massachusetts in 1692 through Arthur Miller's play, 'The Crucible.' This historical lens also serves as a commentary on the McCarthyism hysteria of 1953. Discover the Puritan society, mass fear, and parallels to the Cold War era. Get to know the intriguing cast of characters and the dramatic events that unfold in this captivating play."

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An Introduction to The Crucible by Arthur Miller

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  1. An Introduction to The Crucible by Arthur Miller

  2. 1692 vs. 1953 • The play’s subject focuses on the witch trials of Salem, Massachusetts in 1692 (19 people and 2 dogs were executed) • Miller writes his play over 250 years after the historical events • The Crucible is first performed in 1953 • So why would Miller—at this time—decide to write a play about these events from the distant past?

  3. The play functions as a historical lens on 2 levels • Lens on 1692: a glimpse into Puritan society • Puritan beliefs combined with the nature of Salem’s close-knit community led to mass hysteria and fear • Lens on 1953: a commentary on Miller’s society • Some have argued that Miller wrote the play intending to parallel contemporary “witch hunts” most notably the HUAC

  4. 1953: McCarthyism and HUAC • USA in the midst of a tense Cold War with Russia • The fear that Communism would take over the world (including USA) was nearly universal • Sen. Joseph McCarthy (WI) • HUAC (House Un-American Activities Committee)

  5. HUAC

  6. The Cast of Characters • John Proctor • Elizabeth Proctor • Abigail Williams • Mary Warren • Reverend John Hale • Ezekiel Cheever • George Herrick • Judge Hathorne • Thomas Danforth • Reverend Parris • Betty Parris • Tituba • Mercy Lewis • Thomas Putnam • Ann Putnam • Rebecca Nurse • Giles Corey

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