The classic play ‘The Crucible’, written in 1953 by Arthur Miller, contains many major characters that assist in embodying an idea. The play tracks the development of Reverend Hale allowing readers to understand the flawed and unwavering theocratic and authoritative governing system evident in Salem. Hale develops throughout the play, changing from an incredibly naïve and authoritative character who the readers have an aversion towards to a virtuous and righteous man who is respected for his actions by the readers. In this way, Miller is effective in developing the character of Hale throughout the acts.
The Crucible is an allegorical play based upon the real life witch trials in Salem, Massachusetts, 1692 and the ways in which they
Hence, Miller is outlining the idea that in an authoritative government, proof is far more important than morals or compassion representing the severity of the governmental system. This further brings to light the dangers of moral absolutism and the possible decline of a society. In Act 2, readers are positioned to respond more positively towards Hale and to some extent, sympathise for him. Hale holds a position of powerlessness- he realises the flaws in the court yet he does not have the power or position to contest against it. As a result, Miller, through Hale is successful in positioning readers to respond incredibly negatively towards this ruthless governing system.
In Act 3, Miller portrays Hale as an honest who becomes incredibly courageous and brave allowing readers to fully understand the highly flawed totalitarian reign. It is in Act 3 where Hale changes the most and hence, readers can understand the incredibly unjust and hard system of governing. Hale questions the authorities of the court with a newfound strength and courage that he did not contain before. The line ‘but it does not follow that everyone accused is part of it’ shows Hale’s evolving character as well as the exploitation of the court. As a result, readers completely condemn both the theocracy and the court by finally being able to see the many flaws it contains through Hale’s character. It is in the line ‘I denounce these proceedings’ that Hale clearly outlines the incredibly