“The Crucible” was written by Arthur Miller and first produced during 1953, the middle of the McCarthy political ‘witch-hunt’ in America. This meant that it was seen as a political parable although the story had appealed to the playwright for many years. The play is prefixed by Miller’s own note on the historical accuracy of the play, he explains that the play is based on truth and the events did take place. However he has preferred to change specific things, such as Abigail Williams’ age to emphasise the horrific event that was taking place.
In the play it is possible to understand and feel empathetic towards Abigail and her behaviour. This is because we get to know about her past traumatic experiences. Finding out about Abigail’s past means that as the play progresses her position and strength do not appear sceptical. Early on in the play at the beginning of act one part of Abigail’s past unfolds whilst she threatens Betty and the other girls:
“Abigail: … I saw Indians smash my dear parents’ heads on the pillow next to mine, and I have seen some reddish work done at night, and I can make you wish you had never seen the sun go down!”
Also, early on in the play shortly after Abigail’s threats towards
The Crucible was set in Salem, Massachusetts in 1692. The play is more convincing as at that time Salem would have been a very superstitious place. When there were deaths for no apparent reason people would sometimes turn to witchcraft for something to blame. When people looked to witchcraft as an explanation for the events in Salem it was used by Abigail as a chance to make accusations towards people that she disliked. The other girls being with Abigail would have also enforced people’s belief of what Abigail was saying and made the play more realistic.
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