This document provides background information on The Crucible by Arthur Miller, which depicts the Salem Witch Trials of 1692. It discusses how the Puritan settlers in Massachusetts were fleeing religious persecution but formed a theocracy, and were anxious about attacks from Native Americans. During a period of mass hysteria, residents began accusing each other of witchcraft as a way to find scapegoats for the community's problems. The document also introduces Arthur Miller and prompts the reader to consider how Miller's influences and themes might inform an understanding of The Crucible.

1. Dramatic Theater
1. With a partner, list as many
plays you can think of.
(that you’ve read, seen, acted
in…)
2. For each title: what is the
purpose/mission/theme of
the play??
(to make a political
statement… address a social
issue… etc. )

2. The Crucible
Salem Witch Trials, 1692
Panic, hysteria among Puritans
Need scapegoat for problems; begin “crying
witch”

3. • Puritans in Massachusetts relocated in order to
practice their religious beliefs without persecution.
• Theocracy: government founded on and designed to
preserve their religious principles.
• Convinced they were God’s “chosen people”— had to
combat Satan who freely roamed the wilderness.
Wanted to convert Native Americans.
• Indians resisted conversion = agents of the Devil, must
be destroyed.
• Attacks from roving Native Americans contributed to
anxiety already present in people.
• Friction among residents, political instability of
village = motives of adults (in search of scapegoat for
community’s problems)

4. Mass Hysteria (n.):
a spontaneous condition affecting a group of
persons, characterized by excitement or anxiety,
irrational behavior or beliefs, or inexplicable
symptoms of illness.

5. Arthur Miller
As you read, annotate and highlight…
Miller’s greatest influences on his
style/writing?
Themes his plays and characters most
explore?
Question: What does it all mean for The
Crucible? What can you infer about the
play based on what you know about Arthur
Miller?