The Crucible by Arthur Miller

A set of flashcards summarizing key vocabulary and concepts from 'The Crucible' by Arthur Miller.

Salem Witch Trials

A series of hearings and prosecutions of people accused of witchcraft in 1692.

Allegory

A narrative that uses symbolic figures and actions to convey deeper meanings.

Mass Hysteria

A phenomenon where fear spreads quickly among a group, leading to irrational behavior.

Hysteria and Fear

A major theme in the play that shows how fear replaces reason and leads to false accusations.

Reputation

Social perception influencing characters' actions; essential for survival in Salem.

Authority and Power

The theme highlighting the court's preference for confession over truth.

Integrity vs Self-Preservation

A moral conflict where characters must choose between honesty and survival.

John Proctor

A main character represents moral integrity but is flawed due to an affair.

Abigail Williams

A character driven by manipulation and accusation to power.

Elizabeth Proctor

A character representing moral conscience and honesty.

Reverend Hale

A character symbolizing reason, initially trusts the court but later recognizes injustice.

Judge Danforth

Represents institutional authority; prioritizes the court's authority over truth.

The Poppet

Symbolizes false evidence and the ease of manipulating truth.

The Court

Symbolizes corrupt authority where truth becomes irrelevant.

Emotional Appeals

Rhetorical strategy where characters exploit fear and guilt.

Irony

A literary device where the audience knows the truth while characters do not.

Big Idea

Miller's assertion that fear, authority, and social pressure can undermine justice.