Conflict is represented in both The Crucible by Arthur Miller and Catcher in the Rye by J.D Salinger as the clash of opposing forces due to human flaws. In both the play and the novel, conflicts are portrayed in the inner workings and interpersonal relationships of the main characters, John Proctor and Holden Caulfield within each of their communities. The conflict between good and evil is represented on an individual microcosmic scale and on a macrocosmic societal level. Dramatic irony, well-rounded characterizations and effective first person narration help to show the conflict within the main protagonists of both The Crucible and Catcher in the Rye.
In The Crucible, Miller deals with conflict on both an individual scale and with society. Miller conveys to the reader that conflict is an inevitable part of life and that it is due to the dichotomy of good and evil. The play opens very dramatically in the middle of a confused and troubled conflict involving the teenage girl in the town.
Arthur Miller, American playwright
Holden
HoldenThere is conflict between societies views and interpersonal relationships leading to the first scene of deceit, malice and false illusions.
Miller affirms hope in the character of John Proctor, who is able to rise above adversity and conflict through an expression of goodness and honour. Miller uses language technique like rhetorical question "How may I live without my name? I have given you my soul; leave me my name!" to emphasise the dramatic tension. In the end, Proctor's conflict is resolved and this evident when he says "for now I do think I see some shred of goodness in John Proctor" .
However, the playwright also shows that evil is ubiquitous and difficult to overcome as shown by the difficulties Proctor faces. The power hungry leaders symbolise evil at work in...