Characteristics of Rebecca Nurse in The Crucible

Rebecca Nurse is one of the most prominent characters in Arthur Miller's play, The Crucible. She is depicted as a compassionate and virtuous woman, known for her unwavering faith and strong moral character. Through her actions and interactions with other characters, Rebecca Nurse exhibits various notable traits that contribute to the overall development of the play. This essay will explore the character traits of Rebecca Nurse in The Crucible, highlighting her wisdom, compassion, and resilience, and how these traits shape the events of the play.

Wisdom: A Pillar of Strength

Rebecca Nurse is portrayed as a wise and knowledgeable woman throughout the play. Her wisdom is reflected in her ability to see through the hysteria and chaos that engulfs Salem during the witch trials. Despite the mounting pressure to conform to the prevailing beliefs, Rebecca Nurse remains steadfast in her convictions. She recognizes the dangers of mass hysteria and warns others about the consequences of their actions.

One instance that showcases Rebecca Nurse's wisdom is when she advises John Proctor to stand firm and resist confessing to false accusations. She tells him, "Let you fear nothing! Another judgment waits us all!" (Miller 66). This statement not only demonstrates her insight into the situation but also emphasizes her belief in the ultimate judgment of God. Rebecca Nurse's wisdom acts as a guiding light for those around her and encourages them to think critically before succumbing to the hysteria.

Compassion: A Healing Touch

Another significant characteristic of Rebecca Nurse is her deep sense of compassion. Despite being accused of witchcraft herself, Rebecca Nurse shows empathy and kindness towards those who are suffering. She offers solace and support to the accused, providing a sense of comfort in the midst of their despair.

An example of Rebecca Nurse's compassion is evident in her interaction with Sarah Good, a mentally unstable woman accused of witchcraft. Rebecca Nurse approaches Sarah Good with warmth and understanding, saying, "I have eleven children, and I am twenty-six times a grandma, and I have seen them all through their silly seasons, and when it come on them they will run the Devil bowlegged keeping up with their mischief" (Miller 43). This gentle and understanding approach helps to humanize the accused and challenges the notion that they are inherently evil.

Resilience: Standing Firm in Adversity

Rebecca Nurse's resilience is a defining trait that sets her apart from other characters in The Crucible. Despite facing false accusations and being imprisoned, she remains steadfast in her beliefs and refuses to compromise her integrity. Her resilience serves as a symbol of strength and defiance against the oppressive forces of the Salem community.

One powerful moment that portrays Rebecca Nurse's resilience is when she is brought before the court for questioning. When asked if she denies the charges against her, she confidently replies, "If I must answer that, I will leave and I will not come back again!" (Miller 87). This statement showcases her unwavering determination to maintain her innocence and reinforces her commitment to her principles.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Rebecca Nurse's character in The Crucible exhibits various remarkable traits that contribute to the overall development of the play. Her wisdom, compassion, and resilience make her a standout character, offering a moral compass and a source of inspiration for others. Through her actions and interactions, Rebecca Nurse challenges the irrationality of the witch trials and provides a voice of reason in a time of hysteria. The portrayal of Rebecca Nurse serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining one's integrity and standing up against injustice, even in the face of adversity.

Works Cited

Miller, Arthur. The Crucible. Penguin Classics, 2003.