Theme Of Patriarchy In The Crucible

The social pattern of patriarchy and woman subordination has pervaded much of history, and consequently, has found itself as a timeless theme in literature. The portrayal of women in literature has also been a constant debate throughout time, and many female characters in literature either promote negative stereotypes, encourage the transcendence of patriarchy, or a blend of both. Such is the case for Arthur Miller’s play, The Crucible, wherein Miller’s portrayal of female characters, such as Abigail Williams, can certainly be viewed as one-sided and offensive Yet, the depiction of women in the play is not exclusively oppressive, for example, Elizabeth Proctor, who is clearly transcendent of the madness of Salem society. The women of the play are also frequently looked down upon and objectified by male characters, namely by John Proctor, which could also be a statement on the seemingly timeless struggle for women to gain societal equity. Many of the female characters can be deemed offensive, simply because the majority of the antagonists are women or girls. Miller’s depiction of villainous women is particularly problematic in his portrayal of Abigail Williams. As a character, Abigail Williams is a manipulative, cunning teenage girl who brings her town to chaos to win over a married man’s heart. In the additional Act Two Scene II, Abigail and John are alone in the woods, where both of them lament their affair. John has come to get her to admit that her accusations against