Argumentative Essay
Semester 1 Final Exam: Writing Component
Directions: Choose one of the topics below and write a well-supported argumentative
essay. Be sure to give textual evidence (cite specific quotes) and craft your essay
according to the 6 Good Writing Traits. The final draft will be submitted through
turnitin.com.
Argumentative Topics for The Crucible
TOPIC 1 Drama: Although Miller bases The Crucible on the historical events of the
1692 Salem Witch Trials, he employs several techniques to add dramatic tension. How
does Miller achieve this intensity and how effective are they in convincing the
audience? Consider his use of dialogue, stage direction, set, irony, or any other
dramatic device. Defend your position.
TOPIC 2 Power Dynamics: One of the important motifs worth examining in The
Crucible is that of power: who has it, how they got it, how they use it, and for what
ends. Select one or more characters (they can be powerful or powerless) and examine
the ways in which the exercise their authority or, in the case of someone powerless,
struggle against their powerless state. Defend your position.
TOPIC 3 John Proctor: Arthur Miller introduces the protagonist of his play as a “sinner”
while some critics view him as a Christ-like figure. Make an argument for or against
John Proctor’s character. Is he a man of integrity? Or is he beyond redemption?
Defend your position.
TOPIC 4 Courageous: Who do you think is the most courageous character in The
Crucible? How are they courageous? Defend your position.
ESSAY OUTLINE
Thesis: T.A.G. + Claim (3 reasons, examples, etc.)
Body Paragraph 1
Topic Sentence
Quote (Concrete Detail)
Commentary
Commentary
Concluding Sentence
How is the quote significant? How does it
support your thesis?
Body Paragraph 2
Topic Sentence
Quote (Concrete Detail)
Commentary
Commentary
Concluding Sentence
How is the quote significant? How does it
support your thesis?
Body Paragraph 3
Topic Sentence
Quote (Concrete Detail)
Commentary
Commentary
Concluding Sentence
Conclusion
How is the quote significant? How does it
support your thesis?
EXAMPLE
Thesis: in Arthur Miller’s play The Crucible (1952), Abigail wields power
through deception, seduction, and threats.
Reason # 3 (Topic Sentence): Abigail exercises power through threats.
Concrete Detail 1 (Quote): For instance, she warns Betty and Mary
Warren, “Let either of you breathe a word, or the edge of a word […] I
will come to you in the black of some terrible night and I will bring a
pointy reckoning that will shudder you” (Miller 175).
Opinion (Analysis/ How does this support your position?): She puts fear
in the girls by threatening violence with a knife.
Opinion (So What?): She uses intimidation in order to manipulate the
girls into keeping her secret.