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Character Development in The Crucible


            Truman Capote once said, "it is the want to know the end that makes us believe in god, or witchcraft, believe, at least, in something." Witchcraft affected lives since the 1600's, most commonly in Salem, Massachusetts. Does witchcraft still exist today? In the Crucible, plenty of different stories circulated of people changing, being arrested, and just simply accused. Arthur Miller, the author of the Crucible, shows the transactions that the characters go through using direct and indirect characterization; He shows how Abigail's manipulation, Proctor's withholding, and Elizabeth's loving character develops through out the play. .
             Abigail's manipulative personality made Salem's citizens do things unimaginable. As shown with direct characterization, Abigail can come across as wicked. Scheming with a devious plan and choosing her words wisely Abigail states: "oh posh! Winningly she comes a little closer, with a confidential wicked air we were dancing in the woods last night" (Miller 1139). With this quote Abigail convinces everyone they were just dancing in the woods and to not discuss it any further. However, indirectly her devious personality shines with the following example. Shouting with great might, "I never sold myself! I am a good girl! I'm a proper girl!" (Miller 1155). Indeed she reinforces that she never did any wrong, once again manipulating every one around her. Consequently, Miller uses indirect characterization to show Abigail's effect on people and the way they think in the next quote. Mary Warren continues to argue with John Proctor, stating: "I cannot charge murder on Abigail" (Miller 1181). Obviously, Mary Warren has shown her loyalty towards the shrewd Abigail. In conclusion, Abigail uses this personality trait against Salem Citizens to help herself get away with almost anything.
             Proctor lets his withstanding personality shine from act one on to the end of the play.


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