American Literature
Daigle, 2010-2011
Arthur Miller’s The Crucible
Essay Topics
DIRECTIONS: Choose one of the following essay topics to develop into a well-written
essay. You may use your book and your background knowledge to complete the essay.
The essay should follow the standard 5 paragraph format; it should include an
introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. PEE in your paragraphs; show that you
understand the text and, if you reference the movie, please show you understand the
differences between the text and Hytner film.
You may bring an outline to the exam to help you develop a well-written essay within the
timeframe. The outline will be stapled to the test and turned in at the conclusion of the
test.
1. Examine the perception of duty held by authority figures in Salem. Define the
different concepts of duty, and detail how these duties were carried out. Be sure
to indicate changes in character with power, or his role as the plot evolved.
2. Support or refute John Proctor’s characterization as a noble figure. Discuss how
his values, opinions, and actions affect this perception of him.
3. Think about the views of Puritan life you formed after reading Jonathon Edward’s
sermon “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God,” on pages 152-156 of your text
book. In what ways did reading The Crucible confirm or challenge these views?
Write a personal response to answer this question.
4. Missing Scene: Act Two of The Crucible consisted of two scenes. The second
scene dramatized a meeting between John Proctor and Abigail Williams. Miller
later omitted this scene from the published version, and it is not usually
performed. Examine why Arthur Miller omitted this scene, and discuss how it
adds or detracts from the play as a whole.
5. Choose one of the themes we discussed in class or devise one of your own. Using
details from the play, support the theme.
6. Using your notes and other sources, examine McCarthyism and Arthur Miller’s
involvement in it. Then, use examples from The Crucible to explain Arthur
Miller’s purpose for writing and producing it.
7. Discuss Miller’s treatment of women in The Crucible.
8. Discuss how the themes of The Crucible make it both universal and withstanding
time (timeless). Use specific examples to back up your response.
9. How does the play portray justice and/or injustice? Use specific examples to back
up your response.
10. OTHER – Other ideas for topics must be approved by Miss Daigle.