The Crucible Discussion Questions

Why is the play titled The Crucible?

Traditionally, a crucible is defined as a ceramic or porcelain vessel often used for melting gold or other metals.

Another definition holds that a crucible is testing time in which different elements react to form something new.

Both definitions are applicable to the title of the play. The Salem witch trials end up being a crucible: that is, a deeply testing time for the townspeople. The metaphor extends beyond the courtroom scenes. For example, both John and Elizabeth’s imprisonment are also a kind of testing. By the end, their true natures are revealed. Miller never actually uses the word “crucible” in the play, perhaps because the entire series of events acts as the purifying trial.

Did the girl along with Tituba and Abigail truly conjure the witches? Or was it merely a ruse?

Most critics have claimed that Miller never explicitly stated whether the girls had indeed seen the Devil. Some claim that Tituba was merely engaging them in love charms. It remains a mystery as to whether Tituba genuinely knew and practiced magic, which she might have learnt in Barbados, or whether she was merely playacting to keep the girls engaged.

While Abigail believes that Tituba may even come up with a spell to get rid of Elizabeth, it appears that Tituba herself is not confident of her so-called “magic.” Nevertheless, none of them actually see the Devil. Tituba falsely confesses to save herself from being beaten to death, and the girls go along with her confession, making up new lies. Abigail goes along with the girls in order to avoid getting in trouble with her uncle. Later, she and others in the town realize that an accusation of witchcraft is an effective way to punish people they are angry with.

What generates the tension between the Proctors?

John’s affair with Abigail causes friction between him and Elizabeth. John is longer involved with Abigail and is dismayed to learn that Elizabeth still harbors suspicions about him. In a heated moment, John says to Elizabeth, “You forget nothin’ and forgive nothin’. Learn charity, woman.” Elizabeth believes that Abigail still harbors hopes of rekindling her romance with John. She merely wants John to make sure that Abigail understands as much.