By: Arthur Miller

The Crucible

Anticipation Guide1. Witches, demons, and evil spirits actually exist.2. It’s easy to tell the difference between what is right

and what is wrong.3. There are circumstances or events that justify

murdering someone.4. Withholding information is the same as lying. 5. God determines your fate or destiny. 6. Anyone who is different from what is considered

“normal” is dangerous.7. It is ok to lie as long as you don’t get caught. 8. Gossiping about other people is harmless.9. You should always be willing to accept the

consequences of your actions.  

The Crucible by Arthur Miller

The Crucible is based on true events that occurred during the Salem Witch Trials in the winter of 1691-1692.

The play was first produced in 1953 The Red Scare of the

McCarthy era provided a controversial parallel to The Crucible.

Arthur Miller Biography Arthur Miller (1915-2005)

Was accused of being a communist and ended up being “blacklisted” by the government. 320 artists, writers, and

entertainers were blacklisted.

Wrote over 30 plays Won both a Pulitzer Prize and a

Tony Award.

Many of his plays focused on, “death and betrayal and injustice and how we are to account for this little life of ours”

McCarthyism and the Red Scare Fear of communism in 1940s-

1950s.

Leader: Senator Joseph McCarthy Believed communists had

infiltrated the American government, public, and entertainment industry.

His accusations were later proven to be untrue.

The House of Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC)

“All we want is the truth as we see it.”

McCarthyism and the Red Scare Thousands of Americans

were interrogated. Many ended up having to go

on trials The trials were terrifying and

highly publicized.

Consequences Passports revoked Loss of job Home and business could be

taken by the government Reputation ruined Thrown in jail In the case of Julius and

Ethel Rosenberg-execution

The Red Scare affected people from all backgrounds. Some famous individuals that were accused include: Arthur Miller Charlie Chaplin Orson Wells Lucille Ball Julia Child

Puritanism The repercussions of one person’s sins affected the whole

community.

Imagination, dancing, and reading “unapproved” books was frowned upon.

Believed that women and children were meant to be seen and not heard.

Strong belief that Satan was actively involved in the world.

Type of government: Theocracy

As we read The Crucible think about how these things contributed to the hysteria and paranoia of the Salem Witch Trials.

Project You will be creating a historical-ish Crucible

newspaper.

You will be in groups of three. That you choose based on which article you would like to complete.

In order to be successful, each member must be trustworthy, responsible, honest, respectful, and hard-working.

How your peers evaluate your participation in the group WILL affect your overall grade on the final project!