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Effects Of Individualism In The Crucible

488 Words2 Pages

Throughout history the individual has constantly had to challenge society. The impact of individualism can either have a positive or negative affect. These affects can be shown in The Crucible through John Proctor and Abigail Williams. In The Crucible John Proctor shows the positive affects of individualism. The Puritan society was a theocracy with much structure and order. A Puritan would be expected to follow all rules and laws made by the church. John Proctor took a stand against this way of living. When questioned on why he did not attend church every Sunday, John did not mask his true feelings for Reverend Parris, "I see no light of God in that man. I'll not conceal it" (62). John Proctor used his strong voice in the community to stand up for his wife Elizabeth and …show more content…

society. In Puritan Salem, New England young girls had very little status in society. Abigail gives herself a voice and status in society by accusing people of witchcraft. When Parris discovers Abigail dancing in the woods her desperation to protect her reputation drives the accusations of witches. Abigail knew if she had confessed she would have had to tell the truth about her affair with John which would lower her social status even more. When John confesses the affair Abigail still refuses to admit the truth, "Mr. Danforth, he is lying!" (102). Abigail's ability to manipulate and deceitfulness make her the leader of the group of girls who accused the witches. The accusations start after Tituba confesses and Abigail in an attempt at concealing the truth even more begins to accuse more people, "I saw Goody Osburn with the Devil! I saw Bridget Bishop with the Devil!"(45). Abigail's independence and skills of manipulation lead her to believe she can have anything she wants. She uses this confidence to try and win John Proctor over even though this will never happen and she resents Elizabeth because of

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