Arthur Miller's Critique: The Crucible and McCarthyism

Set in Salem, Massachusetts, in the tumultuous year of 1692, Arthur Miller's play, The Crucible, serves as a powerful commentary on the dangerous repercussions of religious fervor and societal paranoia. The narrative unfolds within a religious community, showcasing the persecution of innocent individuals under false pretenses. Significantly, Miller penned this play during the era of McCarthyism in America, a time when individuals were unjustly accused of communism, facing public condemnation and persecution. In this essay, we will delve into the character of John Proctor, one of the central figures in The Crucible, examining his persecution and his responses to the suspicions of two ministers concerning his faith.

John Proctor: Defiance in the Face of Paranoia

John Proctor emerges as a character unafraid to adhere to his own beliefs, even when faced with the societal pressure to conform. Proctor's disdain for the conformist mindset becomes evident during a discussion with his associates, where he expresses weariness with the incessant mention of Hell by Reverend Parris:

"Can you speak one minute without we land in Hell again? I am sick of Hell!"

This statement unveils Proctor's internal turmoil, suggesting a discomfort with the reminder of his own sins and the impending consequences in the afterlife.

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Simultaneously, it reflects Proctor's anticipation of crucial news, potentially affecting his fate. Proctor's aversion to Parris reaches an extreme, leading him to prefer worshiping in the privacy of his home. This decision stems from his perception of the church as overly materialistic, deviating from its intended spiritual purpose. Proctor boldly asserts to Hale:

"Since we built the church there were pewter candlesticks upon the altar.

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.. But Parris came and for twenty weeks, he preached nothing but golden candlesticks until he had them."

This candid revelation exposes Proctor's lack of fear in expressing his discontent with Parris. Proctor's mistrust extends to the extent of refusing to have his third child baptized, emphasizing his belief that Parris lacks genuine devotion:

"I see no light of God in that man."

Proctor's unapologetic opinions about others highlight his commitment to honesty, even when it challenges societal norms.

Challenging Religious Obligations

Proctor's skepticism extends to his religious obligations, as evidenced by his infrequent attendance at church. When questioned about his poor church attendance, Proctor responds with sarcasm, revealing his disdain for Parris's leadership:

"Mr. Hale, I never knew I must account to that man for I come to church or stay at home."

This sarcastic retort emphasizes Proctor's belief that attending church is not merely an obligation but a matter of personal choice. His rare appearances in church stem not only from his aversion to Parris but also from his preference for worshiping privately, away from what he perceives as the hypocrisy of the organized church.

Proctor's Unyielding Demeanor in the Face of Accusations

Upon the arrival of Reverend Hale, a figure summoned to work in the court, Proctor exhibits an unyielding demeanor, unapologetically being himself. Proctor's dismissive attitude towards the accusations of witchcraft reflects his frustration with what he perceives as pretense. He boldly declares:

"I never spoke on witches one way or the other."

This defensive statement underscores Proctor's unwillingness to conform to societal expectations. Simultaneously, he acknowledges Hale's sensibility, delivering a compliment that carries a hint of sarcasm:

"I've heard you to be a sensible man, Mr. Hale, I hope you'll leave some of it in Salem."

Proctor's boldness leaves Hale momentarily taken aback, illustrating the power of authenticity in the face of societal pressure.

Conclusion: Unveiling the Power of Authenticity

In conclusion, Arthur Miller's The Crucible stands as a poignant critique of the societal paranoia during McCarthyism, embodied through the character of John Proctor. Proctor's unwavering commitment to his beliefs, his disdain for hypocrisy, and his unapologetic authenticity serve as a powerful commentary on the dangers of conformism. Through Proctor's character, Miller encourages individuals to question societal norms and uphold their convictions, even in the face of persecution. The Crucible, far from being a mere historical drama, resonates as a timeless exploration of the human spirit and its capacity for resistance against injustice.