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Examples Of Hypocrisy In The Crucible

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Arthur Miller’s “The Crucible” is a fictional account of the real life Salem witch trials, but the play has far deeper meanings than just a dramatic interpretation of the event. While it does provide an entertaining experience at face value, the true literary genius behind the work is Miller’s insight on human nature and the depravity of man. He uses the story of the witch trials to touch on hypocrisy, tendency to turn to revenge, and human weakness. Firstly, the theme of hypocrisy is found amongst the town of Salem as a whole, especially those who support the witch trials. They are supposed to have strong Christian values, yet they are extremely vindictive. More specifically, Mary Warren says that she is doing the Lord’s work, when in fact she is contributing to the deaths of people who know and love God. “I must tell you, sir, I will be gone every day now. I am amazed you do not see what weighty work we do,” (56) she says in act II. Another example is the hypocrisy within the Salem court system. Judge Danforth claims that his court reveals all truth when he says, “We burn a hot fire here: …show more content…
All the people that caved under the pressure of the courts and confessed to witchcraft were saved from execution. “But not Sarah Good. For Sarah good confessed, y’see,” (54) said Mary Warren in act II when she returned from the court. Those who caved were weak and betrayers to the truth and to God. For example, Goody nurse was appalled when John Proctor said he would confess. “Oh John- God send his mercy on you!” (129) She couldn’t believe that he would cave in after so long, but he eventually came back around and stuck with the truth. The Crucible, by Arthur Miller, is more of a commentary on the themes of hypocrisy, revenge, and weakness than just a fictional account of a real event for entertainment. It takes some thorough analysis to uncover the true meanings and Miller’s knowledge of the depravity of

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