In a sense, The Crucible has the structure of a classical tragedy, with John Proctor as the play's tragic hero. ... Reverend John Hale A young minister reputed to be an expert on witchcraft. ... Hale is a committed Christian and hater of witchcraft. ... As his belief in witchcraft falters, so does his faith in the law. ... Her illness and that of Ruth Putnam fuel the first rumors of witchcraft. ...

• Word Count: 4038
• Approx Pages: 16
• Grade Level: High School

Miller used the Salem Witch Trials of the 17th century, to make an indirect, but assertive comment upon McCarthyism in American life (Richard Watt, Jr. 536). ... During the McCarthyism period witnesses refused to answer questions and when they did they were scorned (Bentley 302). ... However, Miller was interested in the witch trials before he opposed McCarthyism however. He decided to write the play telling about the fear and hysteria McCarthyism caused. ... Everyone in the town panicked and began accusing everyone else of witchcraft. ...

• Word Count: 11015
• Approx Pages: 44
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: High School