The Mass Hysteria in Salem

THE MASS HYSTERIA IN SALEM

In The Crucible, Arthur Miller illustrates the hysteria the town of Salem

undergoes when those are accused of withcraft. In The Crucible, Arthur Miller

describes the panic in Salem when the town is accused of whichcraft. Once the

girls are caught in the woods dancing, the whole town starts to accuse others to

save their own lives. Once everyone is being accused, Abigail sees this as a

perfect time to finally be with John Proctor and accuses his wife Elizabeth of

sending her soul out on others. Her selfishness soon turned on her and her

beloved John Proctor is soon accused as well. Salem panics as more and more

people are being accused and arrested everyday. The panic in Salem is the fault

of the previous relationship with John and Abigail, Abigail's jealousy, and

selfishness.

Hysteria broke out in Salem partly because of John Proctor's and Abigail's

past relationship. Abigail's extreme jealousy of John Proctor's wife was very

apparent when she said, "Oh, I marvel how such a strong man may let such a

sickly wife be-". Abigail wishes she could still be with John, but she was kicked

out when his wife learned of their affair. John is angered when Abigail speaks of

his wife like this and tells her, "You'll speak nothin' of Elizabeth!". It is clear John

loves his wife and not Abigail. It seems their relationship has faded away forever.

Their relationship causes great hurt in Abigail's heart and makes her believe

if it

wasn't for his wife they would be together. This triggers he jealousy.

Abigail's jealousy causes much of the town to be accused of a false crime.

"I look for John Proctor that took me from my sleep and put knowledge in my

heart!". Abby has deep feelings