The Crucible Essay
Write a well-developed essay of at least five paragraphs that analyzes The Crucible. You
must use examples from the text, including at least three quotations. Make sure that you
do not simply retell the story; make your argument and use the story as support for that
argument. With the points that you use from the story, you want to tell why the
information is important and how the information proves your thesis. Make sure that
your thesis is arguable and that you prove your thesis.
Possible topics include, but are not limited to:
1.
“The play is a study of human motivation.” Consider how various characters
exploit the situation in Salem.
2.
“The play is a study of power and manipulation.” Select any two or three
characters and show how they illustrate the abuse of power.
3.
According to Miller’s play, what are the causes of prejudice?
4.
What is the significance of the title: The Crucible
5.
“I have given you my soul; leave me my name!” Do you consider John Proctor to
be heroic? Explain in detail and show examples.
6.
Discuss the change or lack of change undergone by the main characters.
7.
Consider the relationship between John Proctor and Abigail Williams and how
Arthur Miller presents it to an audience. Does their relationship add or take away
from the play? Explain.