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Abuse Of Power In The Crucible By Arthur Miller

764 Words4 Pages

The Crucible “Liberty may be endangered by the abuse of liberty, but also by the abuse of power” as exclaimed by James Madison. The abuse of power has been a major role in world literature. One of the plethora of these roles can be seen in The Crucible, from the misuse of power of several people of authority. During times of distress and hysteria in Salem Village, Massachusetts, three main people with authority are shown to misuse their power. These characters are nominal to the events of corruption and misuse of power that happens daily, but show great example what still takes place in today’s world. The Crucible teachers the audience that it does not always matter how high a certain ranking is, the use of authority can easily be manipulated …show more content…

With such praise comes the opportunity for manipulation. Abuse of authority is a character trait that Parris shows during the times of distress in Salem Village. As expressed by John Proctor, “A minister may pray to God without he have golden candlesticks upon the altar sir, when i look to heaven and see my money glaring at Parris’s elbows - It hurt my prayer” (856). Parris, being a priest in Salem Village, is suppose to preach the good will of God, but abused his power by preaching about golden candlesticks. Other unjustly acts include petitioning the townspeople to give him more salary and the deed to his house. The quote by John Proctor proves the acts of Parris to be unjustified, supporting the fact he has abused his …show more content…

Deputy Governor Danforth, otherwise known as Judge Danforth, prides himself of the ranking he holds, but his use of power is negatively used during the Salem Witch Trials. “Do you know who I am, Mr.Nurse? And do you know that near four-hundred are in the jails upon my signature? And seventy-two are condemned to hang by that signature?” (80-81). Danforth, in a bragging manner, exclaims to Francis Nurse of the capabilities he is possessive of, although they are used against the greater good. This character trait is a major role in Danforth as the play continues on. Danforth uses logical fallacies to support his corrupt acts, attempting to convince others that he is a man of justice. His actions prove

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