"The Crucible" - Key Moments - Act 1

Reasons for the Witch-hunt

Salem was goverened through a combination of atate and religious power, "a theocracy", in the hope of keeping evil at bay. As the times became less dangerous, the nedd for such strict rules lessened and people began to express an interest in "greater individual freedom". The witch-hunt came about as people began to explore this freedom.

The witch-hunt also gave people "a long overdue opportunity" to revenge themselves upon old enemies and to settle old scores to do with land ownership. Some people used it as a way to free their consciencs from sins they had committed, by blaming things upon innocent victims.

The Putnams

The Putnams resent Parris and are deeply vengeful people. Thomas Putnam had opposed the appointment of the previous minister as he wanted his own brother-in-law to have the position. This resentment is carried over to Parris.

When Mrs. Putnam enters, she is pleased that misfortune has befallen Parris. She has heard that Betty flew over Ingersoll's barn. Before Parris can refute this, THomas Putnam enters. He ignores the minister and goes straight to the bed to look at Betty. He compares her with his own daughter who has been taken ill. Mrs. Putnam saya thta the girsl are not merely sick, but that "it's death drivin' into them, forked and hoofed". it is really Mrs. Putnam's actions that lead to the suggestion of witchcraft. She does not see that her daughter was simply becoming an adolescent, but prefers to blame her change of behaviour on Ruth having been bewitched. Note for continuous alternation between rational and hysterical remarks.

The Putnams are delighted that Parris is in trouble. They might be able to replace him as minister and blame their own misfortunes on witchcraft at the same time. The Putnams deviously manipulate the situation for their own ends.

The Girls' True Natures

Abigail and Mercy are genuinly puzzled and concerned by Ruth's condition. they have not yet grasped the seriousness of the situation. Remember that they are still quite young and have not yet become part of adult society.

Abigail clearly frightens the other girls and they are prepared to do whatever she tells them. Abigail is obviously the ringleader and shows that she is able to keep her head in difficult situations.

The End of the Affair

Abigail's continued attraction to Proctor is one of the key driving forces behind events. they ahve an affair and still feel a strong physical attraction for one another, as abigail declare: "you know me then and you do know!". Proctor, however, has made up his mind that the affair with abigail is over and he shows strength of character in refusing her. Abigail naturally feels abandoned by Proctor. It is now that bitterness sets in, and she begins to seek vengeance.

Feuding Families

Miller tells us about the history of the Nurses and the Putnams:

* the Nurses had been involved in long-running disputes over land with a member of the Putnam family.

* it was the Nurse family who had prevented Putnam's brother-in-law from becomign minister.

* the Nurses had established their own township outside Salem and this was deeply resented by Putnam.

* the first complaint against Rebecca Nurse was signed by Edward and Jonathan Putnam and it was Ruth Putnam who pointed out Rebecca, in the courtroom, as her attacker.