Abigails Guilt

"To vice, innocence must always seem only a superior kind of chicanery." Ouida (1839-1908) In The Crucible Abigail committed the greatest of crimes. She destroyed the reputations of many and killed many as well. She influenced others to her evil way and killed out of greed. She managed to get away with her life without even a question of guilt, and as the hysteria of witchcraft grew in Salem she did not fear anyone. She was in control over the town and ran it with fear of death. Her magic wand's spell was the simple accusation of witchcraft. Her power lied in the fact that judges believed her, and all the girls followed her. She was guilty of murder by lying to court, having an affair with a married man, and accusing simply for greed. Abigail lied to the courts on numerous occasions. "No, I cannot, I cannot stop my mouth; it's God's work I do." (Abigail 115) At this point she is trying to prove to the court that she is being bewitched. If she was bewitched, why would it be happening in court? The accused obviously would not want to prove her guilt in front of a judge with an edgy finger for signing death certificates. Also, Abigail lied to get some backing on her accusations by accusing two of the worst ladies in town of witches, as well as a black slave from Barbados. This was very believable, as these women held no social rank among the town. This has been a common way throughout history to get support for individuals and groups. The Nazi party in Germany accused Jews of all their economic woes. It gained backing among the party as they looked for blame, and Nazis gained from it power. Abigail is a skillful liar and a quality enemy. Abigail purposely hurt herself for evidence in court. "I have been hurt…I have seen my blood runnin' out! I have been near to murdered everyday because I done my duty pointing out the Devil's people." (Abigail 108) She was very good about pinning guilt on others and the fact that she was the victim. She had a way with convincing both the judge and jury. Abigail was a liar but was not charged of it. Abigail had an affair with a married man, and knew he was. A great sin in all cultures was committed by her and her lover Proctor. "I know how you clutched my back behind your house and seated like a stallion whenever I come near! Or did I dream that? It's she put me out, you cannot pretend it were you. I saw your face when she put me out, and you loved me then and you do now." (Abigail 22) She truly loved him but also began to have an obsession with him. She was very young at 17, while Proctor was in his mid-thirties. Her age and inexperience probably played a role