Fear In The Crucible

Humans have been referred to as some of the most psychologically complex beings. In “The Crucible” Arthur Miller ventures into a highly studied subject, how do humans and societies react in times of crisis and panic? Miller bases his story off of the Salem witch trials, in his dramatized version, A small puritan village is struck with mass hysteria after a girl accuses someone of witchcraft. The story of witch trials is added for entertainment, below the surface Miller gradually explores Human Vulnerability, hypocrisy, and vengeance as his story unfolds, using Humans for relatability and understanding. Creating a great example of how humans and societies can crumble, collapse and bottom out under pressure.
In the beginning of the book, fear is shown as a vulnerability in one of the characters. Reverend Parris becomes alarmed when he is notified that the

As soon he is notified, he is struck with panic, hearing words no one wants to hear, “Susanna: He bid me come and tell you, reverend sir, that he cannot discover no medicine for it in his books… But he bid me tell you, that you might look to unnatural things for the cause of it.” (Miller 9). Parris, now alarmed, instantly goes into denial, claiming that no supernatural causes had anything to do with his daughter’s illness. Parris, was put into a state of fear, which allowed people to take advantage of him. The thought of witchcraft tormenting his daughter is also reflected on his actions, his emotions have now blinded his judgement. Parris is now starting to believe that witchcraft may have been involved. Abigail mentions that rumors of witchcraft are being spread around the village, and Parris tells Abigail that he saw her in the forest dancing, Parris questions Abigail on her whereabouts and what doings in the Forest. To which she replies “We did dance uncle, and when you leaped out of the bush so suddenly, Betty was frightened and