𝕿𝖍𝖊 𝕮𝖗𝖚𝖈𝖎𝖇𝖑𝖊

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Hysteria and Integrity

Arthur Miller used characterization and imagery to convey his theme of hysteria within The Crucible.

One way that Arthur Miller used characterization, was by making certain people represent specific ideals of that time. Abigail's character was cruel, manipulative and jealous as was shown in her behaviour to her friends by making them give false accusations, as well as her behaviour towards John Proctor.
Judge Danforth's character was strict, he embodied the ideal puritan of their time by staying on one firm path of what he believed was righteousness.
Because of his devotion to God, Judge Danforth played a large role in causing hysteria by threatening hanging if the accused would not confess to having practiced witchcraft.
Abigail pressured her friends into acting out which added to the fear of the townspeople, having believed them to be possessed.

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Imagery

Arthur Miller used imagery throughout the writing by creating a script. He used the actions of the characters to convey his message just as much as he used the words of the characters. Through the actions of Mary Warren as Abigail feigned possession, he showed how rapidly fear could grow within the community. He showed us the dangers of hysteria by giving the accounts of death such as the death of Giles Corey. Throughout the book, Arthur shows the readers the impact of integrity versus manipulation when it comes to stressful times full of hysteria. He used the Salem Witch Trials as an allegory for the Red Scare, using the fear mongering of those in charge and the accusations that pointed in many directions, just as accusations of communism were pointed at many people during that time. From this it is clear that Arthur Miller disagreed with the way the Red Scare was handled.