The Crucible Act 1 Vocabulary and Character Review

Vocabulary and key concept flashcards covering Act 1 character motivations, conflicts, stage directions, and themes from Arthur Miller's The Crucible.

Reverend Parris

The minister of Salem who is deeply concerned with keeping his position and authority, caring more about his ministry than his daughter Betty's health.

Abigail Williams

A manipulative character who lied about drinking blood in the forest and blamed Tituba, seeking to avoid punishment without exposing her secret relationship with John Proctor.

John Proctor

An independent, honest man who brings conflict into the story because he had an affair with Abigail while already married.

Reverend Hale

The investigator whose arrival changes the situation in Salem from a rumor into a full investigation of suspected witchcraft.

Mrs. Putnam

A townsperson whose grief and resentment after losing seven children causes tension and distrust within the Salem community.

Tituba's Confession

A critical Act 1 moment where Reverend Hale questions Tituba, leading to her confession and the involvement of Abigail and other girls.

Stage Directions

Playwright instructions that reveal underlying details about characters through action, dialogue, and silence, such as showing the audience that Abigail is good at lying.

Parris vs. Townspeople

An existing conflict in Salem where Reverend Parris distrusts members of his church, believing that some of them want him removed.

Salem Community Division

A state in Salem where people are divided on suspicion and hold preexisting grudges against each other, fostering panic, false accusations, and executions.

Miller's Theme on Hysteria

Arthur Miller's message showing how fear and concern cause people to hide and protect the truth, which eventually grows into widespread hysteria and distrust.