The Crucible
Definitions of crucible
Denotation - a container that resists heat; typically used to test for impurities in (iron, silver, gold) ores
Connotation - a symbolic melting pot or bearing of a cross
Modern - "a severe test" or "a place or situation in which concentrated forces interact to cause change"
Why would Miller have chosen this title?
a crucible
Tragedy
a drama (serious play) with an unhappy ending brought about by the central character(s) because of:
fate
moral weakness
psychological maladjustment
social pressure
the purpose is to arouse the emotions of pity and fear and thus produce a catharsis (purging) of these emotions
Which parts of this definition are evident in
The Crucible
?
Tragic Hero
a character with many admirable qualities so the audience responds sympathetically to him or her
usually has a single flaw or makes a single mistake which leads to his/her destruction or downfall
Watch for one or more tragic heroes in this play.
Themes
Obedience to authorities vs. individual freedoms
Individual vs. conformity
Ignorance vs. wisdom (fear vs. rationality)
Human cruelty in the name of righteousness
Justice vs. retribution and revenge
Godliness vs. worldliness
The Puritan Myth
Watch for how these themes develop in this play.
Wynona Ryder as Abigail
Irony
The intended meaning of a word or phrase that is used suggests the opposite of what it actually means
Watch for instances of irony.
Paradox
A statement contrary to what one might expect.
Look at the events in Salem as a paradox. Why are the events of Salem the opposite of what we might expect from a "God-fearing" people?
Allegory
A story in which people, things, and happenings have another meaning, as in a fable or parable
The Crucible
has been considered a political allegory. Do you know why?
What other allegories have you read?
