REVIEW OF THEMES AND
HISTORICAL CONTEXT
for our test on
The Crucible
TO DO for your REVIEW:
Review the ideas, terms and definitions
that are in bold on this slide AND
review the other attached documents.
What is The Crucible?
● The Crucible is a play written by Arthur Miller.
● The play explores themes of hysteria, morality, and the
consequences of fear.
● Movie Clip: Abigail Sharp Reckoning Scene - The Crucible
(1996)
● Set during the Salem witch trials, it serves as an allegory (a
story that reveals a hidden moral or meaning) for McCarthyism.
Historical Context: McCarthyism
● McCarthyism refers to the period of intense anti-communist
suspicion in the U.S. during the 1950s.
● Watch a video on McCarthyism
● McCarthyism involved accusations of Communism and
investigations led by Senator Joseph McCarthy.
● The Crucible reflects the paranoia of this era.
Hollywood Red Scare
● Learn about the Red Scare from this video.
● McCarthyism and the Red Scare impacted Hollywood, leading
to blacklisting of many artists.
● Many people were accused of communist ties without
substantial evidence.
● This created a culture of fear and silence in the Hollywood film
industry.
The United States House Un-American Activities
Committee (HUAC) and Its Role
● The House Un-American Activities Committee
investigated alleged disloyalty to our country.
● Many individuals were called to testify, often leading to ruined
careers.
● The Crucible parallels these events with its portrayal of the
Salem Witch trials.
● Read more about HUAC at the History.com HUAC page and its
Introductory Video.
● National Archives - President Harry Truman & McCarthyism
Arthur Miller's Perspective
● Arthur Miller wrote The Crucible as a response to the
McCarthy hearings.
● He aimed to highlight the dangers of mass hysteria and
scapegoating.
● His experiences with McCarthyism and HUAC influenced the
play's themes.
● Why did Arthur Miller write The Crucible? With your table
group, summarize this article from The New Yorker.
Salem Witch Trials
● The Salem witch trials were a series of hearings and
prosecutions 1692.
● They resulted in the execution of 20 people, mostly
women.
● The trials were fueled by fear, superstition, and social tensions.
● The History Channel provides insights into The Dark History of
the Salem Witch Trials.
● Visit the Salem Witch Museum to learn more about Salem,
Massachusetts and the Salem Witch Trials.
Impact of The Crucible
●
The Crucible remains relevant today, reflecting
ongoing issues of fear and injustice.
● It encourages critical thinking about authority and individual
morality.
● The play is often studied in schools for its historical and social
significance.
Small Group Discussion . . .
Write your Answers on the Board.
And, as we read, think about . . .
1. What are some similarities between the Salem Witch
Trials and McCarthyism?
2. How might fear and hysteria influence characters’
actions in The Crucible–and people, in general?
3. In what ways might The Crucible reflect modern
social, political and communication issues?
4. What is the role of of authority in the play, historical events, and
today.
Consider these Possible Responses and add your own
detailed examples . . .
1. Parallels include the scapegoating of individuals, the erosion of civil
liberties, and the consequences of mob mentality.
2. Fear and hysteria lead characters to act irrationally, often resulting in false
accusations and tragic outcomes.
3. The Crucible reflects modern issues like political polarization and
conflict, social media influence, siloed online communication, and
the spread of misinformation. Fear of the influence of other
[specific?] countries or political parties on American social
media/politics.
4. Authority figures in the play, historical figures, and politicians (and others)
today can manipulate with fear to maintain control and suppress dissent.
Conclusion
● The Crucible serves as a powerful reminder of the
dangers of fear and intolerance.
● Understanding its historical context enriches our appreciation
of the play.
● We will continue to explore the themes and relevance of The
Crucible in today's world.