The Crucible
Essay Prompts
‘There are wheels within wheels in this village, and fires within fires!’ – Ann Putnam. Is this an accurate statement concerning the nature of the Salem witch trials in Miller’s text?
The citizens of Salem rely too much on subjectivity and superstition in their course for justice. To what extent to you agree?
Proctor confesses that he ‘regards himself as a kind of fraud’. Discuss deception and pretense that occurs in the text.
Danforth is the most unforgiveable character within the play. To what extent do you agree?
‘I cannot stop my mouth; it’s God’s work I do.’ – Abigail Williams. Abigail and the girls are justified in their actions condemning the citizens of Salem. Do you agree?
By demonising the justice system in 17th century Salem, Miller celebrates the goodly citizens as well. Discuss.
Discuss the presence of diversity and discrimination within The Crucible.