The meaning of the Title, "The Crucible" by Arthur Miller: The Severe Test.

Essay by lindsey_37075High School, 11th gradeA+, September 2005

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The Severe Test.

When someone talks about a severe test, he is usually referring to his recent algebra test. Although, in this case, a severe test is referring to characters in "The Crucible" by Arthur Miller. Miller's tests are about witchcraft, people's faith, and understanding. Back in these times, all a person had to do was look at someone the wrong way and they were accused of witchcraft. In the story, three main people exhibit these changes. Abigail Williams becomes very manipulative. John Proctor reveals how he really feels about his sins. Reverend Hale changes after this wife is convicted of being a witch, and after he realizes that Abigail is a fraud. The Crucible brings change to the people, and the change helps reveal the individuals' true character.

Abigail Williams' true character is revealed in the play very early on. At first she seems like an innocent child.

"We did dance, uncle, and when you leaped out of the bush so suddenly, Betty was frightened and then she fainted. And there is the whole of it"(Miller 1093). However, things start to change quickly. She starts blaming witchcraft on people just so no one will suspect her of being a witch. "I saw Goody Hawkins with the Devil! I saw Goody Booth with the Devil!" (Miller 1111). If someone tries to accuse her of being a witch, she acts crazy and says that Mary Warren has possessed her. She even goes as far as accusing John Proctor's wife of witchcraft because she wants John for herself. Reverend Hale finally sees through her and realizes that she is a fraud. As a result, she leaves town to escape all the accusations. She has changed from an innocent girl to a cold-blooded liar because of the crucible in this play.