THE CRUCIBLE ESSAY
ESSAY 1
Discuss the changes that Reverend Hale undergoes in the course of the
play. What is his central conflict? Keep in mind Hale’s initial opinion of
what is happening in Salem, what he learns through interviewing the
characters, and then evaluate his thoughts on what was occurring. Be sure to
demonstrate in your essay how the author uses characterization to develop
theme and enhance the meaning of the work. Support your analysis with
concrete evidence and insightful, well-developed commentary.
THESIS
Throughout the play, Reverend Hale undergoes drastic changes
that reveal a moral conflict, which highlights the idea that in a
time of trial, rational thought cannot stand against the hysteria of
a society in panic.
SUPPORT
Commentary: shows how specific examples reveal a piece of the thesis. It
goes beyond plot by explaining what the text DOES.
(Plot merely tells me what the text says in your own words.)
Ex: Events that reveal Hale’s change from a believer of the girl’s stories of
witchcraft, to one who questions their motives.
When Hale sees Mary’s wavering in her support of Abigail, along with
Proctor’s open confession to adultery, his logic and rational thought force him
to question the validity of the accusations.
ANALYSIS
Analyze: This takes your commentary and explains what it MEANS. What is
the author’s purpose?
Hale’s change of heart is timely, but it is not enough to get Danforth to
change his focus on finding and punishing those accused of witchcraft. He is
already so deeply committed to the cause that he cannot see reason. This
reveals that in a time of hysteria, an individual, no matter how rational, will
not be heard clearly above the chaos.