The+Name+of+the+Play+Essay

In the Crucible, characters are both reduced to the essences and test. This in regard relates to the name of the play "The Crucible", meaning a container for purifying metals and a severe test. Characters such as Abigail Williams, John Proctor, and Reverend Parris all are prime examples of this relationship. Throughout the play these characters are tested on their decsions, morals and actions which relates to the second meaning of crucible. Some of them also relate to the first meaning of the crucible meaning purifying metals.

In the play Abigail is put to the test. When Abigail bails to Barbados when the court starts to get to the nitty gritty of the situation, in that doing she failed her test. Abigail as we know a selfish, disdainful person she is not taking any responsibility for her actions and this causes the hysteria in Salem. Before Abigail bails she steals money from her uncle, Parris. This shows she is not being wise of her decision and on the same note, doesnt care and is only being her typical self. Her biggest test was her affair with John Proctor. When she finally came to the realziation that John wants nothing to do with her she goes on a crazy rampage and starts the blame game. Abigail decides to blame Tituba of witchery and her most hated enemy, Elizabeth Proctor. All in all she has failed her test.

Oppositee of Abigail, John Proctor passes his test as a citizen in Salem. He took responsiblity for his actions and admitted the truth about his affair with Abigail. Later when Elizabeth was accused by the scornful Abigail, John knew something had to be done. He went to the court and had to prove her innocence. Although she did not get off right away, he proved his loyalty, and love to her and that is what mattered the most to Elizabeth. His affair tested had tested the limits of his love for Elizabeth which was the most important test he had pass, and that he did.

Revered Hale is also tested in the Crucible. It is mainly his judgement being tested throughout the play. He had to make huge decisions on who was telling the truth and who was lying. When he was in the process of this he was going by religious faith and as we know can be unfair at times. By the end of play he made a decision to defend proctor. He knew John and his wife and no connection to witchery. His failing to do this earlier caused John to be uncertain on whether to confess a lie or to die knowing he had done the right thing.

In conclusion, these characters are tested in the Crucible. Some which passes and some which didnt. The name "Crucible" fits the play perfectly. Not only does its meaning relate to a character but the other meaning relates to other characters actions throughout the play. That is why "The Crucible" is appropriate for the play.