Here's an excellent resource that I highly recommend: The "Deeper Roots Project" provides helpful character sketches of Abigail, Reverend Hale, and Reverend Parris, using The Crucible movie for visual illustration. Having a look through these would be helpful for preparing for next week's test as well as for producing the play.
Abigail Williams -- part 1You may be able to find a few other episodes from the Deeper Roots Project.
Abigail Williams -- part 2
Reverend Hale -- part 1
Reverend Hale -- part 2
Reverend Samuel Parris
These were very helpful analyses, especially the ones about Hale.
ReplyDeleteCould John Proctor have spurred the onslaught of the Salem Witch trials by his affair and subsequent “break-up” with Abigail? Did he use Abigail? Abigail says “I look for John Proctor that took me from my sleep and put knowledge in my heart! … And now you bid me tear the light out of my eyes”(22). She here is trying to make it seem that she is merely an innocent girl who was used by John Proctor. However, I do not believe that John took advantage of her for several reasons. Abigail controls other people and does not allow herself to be controlled in any way, and she seems to be fully in control of herself and very much in control of the situations surrounded her. So I think that she seduced John as much or even more than John seduced her.
Great discussion question -- and your comments indicates you understand the characters of Proctor and Abigail. Ah, but remember: Abigail "has an endless capacity for dissembling." Also, when considering the "inciting force" of the drama of The Crucible, look for evidence within the text itself.
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