Discrimination In The Crucible

A crucible, according to Learner’s Dictionary, is a severe test. Learner 's Dictionary also defined it as a place or situation that forces people to change or make difficult decisions. Both definitions make sense in why they chose to name the play, The Crucible. Crucibles, by both definitions, are seen in the book and in our world today by Proctor confessing, Mary changing sides, discrimination in our world, and religious persecution today. Crucibles, or severe tests, are seen in the play. One significant example in the play is when Proctor’s character is tried. Proctor had to decide to confess to sleeping with Abigail. He told the court, “I have known her, sir. I have… known her. Danforth: You… are a lecher?” Later on Proctor replied, “No, Francis, it is true, it is true. She will deny it, but you will believe me, sir; a man will not cast away his good name, sir, you surely know that” (68). Although committing adultery in our society today is extremely looked down upon, committing adultery was a greater offense in the Puritan community that had major repercussions. Proctor made the choice to throw away his reputation to save his wife’s life. Because of this his character was extremely tested during the play. This isn’t the only definition of crucible that is seen in the play. There are many situations in this play that force people to make hard decisions or change, which is also known as a crucible. Mary is a good example of someone who had a hard decision in the play.