An Acquisitive Soul
In Arthur Miller’s play, The Crucible, Reverend Parris is depicted as a character who displays selfishness and greed throughout the play. Although some believe Parris is financially better off than others, he still complains his salary is not enough to support himself. Parris also demands the deed for the house he is allowed to stay in. This is breaking a long living tradition for the sake of his own well-being. As if that much luxury was not enough, Parris also insists on replacing the candlesticks in the church with those made of gold. When Proctor accuses Parris of his greed, the reverend makes weak excuses, although never does he deny John’s claim. When Giles states that Parris is given six pound a year to buy wood, Parris responds, “I regard that six pound as part of my salary. I am paid little enough without I spend six pound on firewood” (1227). It seems as if an arrangement has been made for Parris to buy his firewood with six pound. He responds by saying that the additional money is part of his salary and that he should be provided the firewood. By refusing to put out money for his own needs, he harms others and breaks deals for his personal gain. As Parris mourns Betty’s illness, one might take pity on the man. A closer look at his true thoughts reveal that the Parris is worried about nothing but his own reputation. The man lies and cheats to save himself and his money from the danger of the court. When asked if he had seen Abigail dancing