Examples of Intolerance in The Crucible

The Crucible, written by Arthur Miller, is a play that explores the consequences of intolerance in a society. Set in Salem, Massachusetts in the late 17th century, the play depicts the hysteria and paranoia that ensues when the town is gripped by rumors of witchcraft. Through the characters and events in the play, Miller exposes the destructive nature of intolerance and its far-reaching effects. This essay will examine examples of intolerance in The Crucible, demonstrating how it leads to the persecution of innocent individuals and the breakdown of social order.

Intolerance is a central theme in The Crucible, and it is most prominently manifested in the persecution of individuals who are perceived to be different or threatening to the established social order. The character of John Proctor, a respected farmer in Salem, becomes a target of the town's intolerance when he is accused of witchcraft. Proctor's sin of adultery with Abigail Williams, a young woman who is at the center of the witchcraft hysteria, is used against him as evidence of his supposed alliance with the devil. Proctor's refusal to confess to a crime he did not commit ultimately leads to his execution, illustrating the dire consequences of intolerance in the play.

Furthermore, the character of Rebecca Nurse, an elderly and well-respected member of the community, also falls victim to the town's intolerance. Despite her innocence and good character, Nurse is accused of witchcraft and ultimately hanged. Her unjust persecution demonstrates the devastating impact of intolerance on individuals who do not conform to societal norms or who are simply perceived as threats to the status quo.

In addition to the persecution of individuals, The Crucible also illustrates how intolerance leads to the breakdown of social order and the erosion of trust within the community. The witchcraft trials and the subsequent hysteria create a climate of fear and suspicion in Salem, causing neighbors to turn against one another in a desperate attempt to protect themselves. The characters in the play become consumed by paranoia, and their once-strong community becomes fractured and distrustful. This breakdown of social cohesion is a direct result of the intolerance that grips the town, as individuals are willing to sacrifice their neighbors and friends in order to save themselves.

The implications of intolerance in The Crucible are far-reaching and deeply troubling. Miller's play serves as a powerful allegory for the anti-communist hysteria that swept through America during the mid-20th century, known as the "Red Scare." The play highlights the destructive consequences of intolerance and the dangers of allowing fear and suspicion to dictate the actions of a society. By examining the examples of intolerance in The Crucible, it becomes clear that the play serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of succumbing to mass hysteria and the importance of upholding principles of justice and tolerance.

In conclusion, The Crucible provides powerful examples of intolerance and its devastating effects on individuals and society as a whole. Through the persecution of characters like John Proctor and Rebecca Nurse, as well as the breakdown of social order in Salem, Miller's play demonstrates the destructive nature of intolerance and the importance of resisting fear and suspicion. By examining the implications of intolerance in The Crucible, it becomes evident that the play serves as a timeless reminder of the dangers of allowing intolerance to dictate the actions of a society. As such, it remains a poignant and relevant work that continues to resonate with audiences today.

Works Cited:
Miller, Arthur. The Crucible. Penguin Books, 1953.