The word crucible means a severely trying test or experience. When going through a test people sometimes might change in ways that alter their lives. Characters in the book The Crucible saw themselves change while undergoing a sever test. These people did not understand how much they were really changing and how it would effect them for the rest of their lives. Rev. Parris thought of himself mostly but would learn to change. Rev. Hale is in expert in witchcraft and is convinced that there are witches in Salem when he first arrives, but John Proctor's strong influence changes his mind. Elizabeth Proctor is a very respectable lady whose faith and trust in her husband is tested almost everyday.
Reverend Parris turned from being self-centered to looking for the truth and not worrying about how the outcome may affect him. In Act I Parris is often seen worrying about how these accusations may affect him.
Elizabeth Martin & Melissa Clark at the ship's clu...
Reverend Samuel Parris (1653-1720)
A.H. Runge, Com'r Johnson, Geo. C. Hale (LOC)In Act I Parris says, "In my house? In my house, Thomas? They will topple me with this!"(16). Early in he book he already is worrying about how this may affect him even though his niece is still laying in bed and he does not know if she will wake up. Later in Act III Rev. Parris is quoted saying, "They've come to overthrow the court, sir!"(88). He now does two bad things not only is he still only worrying about how John Proctors evidence at this time may affect his creditability but he uses his power to cloud the judgments of the courts. Later in the book (Act IV) he begins to see the truth and how his niece may be fraud. In Act IV Parris talks to Danforth about Abigail, " There is news, sir that the court- the court must reckon with.