Name: __________________________________________________________
American Literature
Abschutz/Mackay/Kelly
Date: _________________
The Crucible Journal
Through the Character’s Eyes
What if one of the characters in The Crucible kept a “forbidden diary,” detailing his or her
thoughts and insights on the events happening in Salem? Most importantly, this diary
would reveal much about this person’s inner feelings, motives and reactions. This project
will allow you to “become” one of these characters and demonstrate your understanding
and interpretation of the play.
Your Mission:
1) Select one of the following characters to use as your subject:
a. John Proctor
b. Abigail Williams
c. Elizabeth Proctor
d. Reverend Parris
e. Reverend Hale
2) Create a personal journal for that character and write all entries in the FIRST
PERSON. This journal must show major events in the play. You are required to
write a minimum of 4 full-page, double-spaced entries in the following formats.
a. Descriptive Entry: A strong visual and sensory (sight, smell, taste, touch,
and sound) entry that creates a lasting impression on your reader. You need
to describe one scene from the play in this style as if you were there, using
sensory details. Think imagery – Use lots of active verbs and strong
adjectives.
b. Narrative Entry: A short story style entry that reviews a specific event in
the play from your character’s perspective. This entry should include
dialogue and the plot elements like rising action, climax, falling action, and
resolution.
c. Persuasive Entry: An entry that reflects on your character’s wishes and
creates an argument that will convince the reader how your character will
attain this wish. You can think of this entry like a letter or speech to another
character that does not support you.
d. Reflective Entry: An entry that describes how one event or a series of
events has impacted your character. How do you feel about these events?
What have you learned? What would you do differently if you had the
opportunity?
3) Make your journal a creative timepiece. While this assignment MUST BE TYPED, be
creative. Change the font, age the paper, use images, and make your work stand out.
DUE DATE: Feb. 10th (Per.4) & Feb. 11th (Per. 1 & 2)
You must bring this handout to class with you on the due date.
Name: __________________________________________________________
Date: _________________
Through the Character’s Eyes
Rubric
Category
Possible Points
Your Points
Descriptive Entry
Entry is written in first person
Entry uses strong and descriptive words
Entry reflects events from the play accurately
Entry reflects character point of view accurately
20
5
5
5
5
_______________
Narrative Entry
Entry is written in first person
Entry includes dialogue and plot elements
Entry reflects events from the play accurately
Entry reflects character point of view
20
5
5
5
5
_______________
Persuasive Entry
Entry is written in first person
Entry gives a specific argument
Entry uses support to persuade reader
Entry reflects character point of view
20
5
5
5
5
_______________
Reflective Entry
Entry is written in first person
Entry shows reflection on actions and events
Entry gives details as to character’s thoughts
Entry reflects character point of view
20
5
5
5
5
_______________
Creativity and Authenticity
Journal uses font to convey time period
Journal has creative cover or staining
Journal is an accurate artifact of the character
Journal uses images or quotations of the time
20
5
5
5
5
_______________
Total Grade: _______________ / 100 points