Giles Corey: Analyzing The Character Traits and Its Significance

The literary work of Arthur Miller's "The Crucible" explores a society in which suspicion and distrust run rampant, and individuals are accused of witchcraft without any substantial evidence. The play's protagonist, John Proctor, is one of the many characters who endure immense suffering, but there is an equally intriguing character with a fascinating backstory: Giles Corey. Giles Corey is a character who embodies morality, strength, and integrity, and has an intriguing place in literature. In this essay, I will analyze Giles Corey's character traits and their significance within the plot of "The Crucible."

Giles Corey's Character Traits

Giles Corey is a well-respected character in Salem and possesses numerous essential characteristics that establish his role in the story. From his first appearance, Giles presents himself as a straight-talking farmer who is unafraid to speak his mind. He is a man of few words but is known for his great strength. Giles, in short, is the epitome of a straightforward and uncomplicated individual. He is a man who is always honest about his feelings, telling John Proctor: "If I'm an enemy of authority, then Mr. Parris should be a close friend to me."

Another character trait of Giles is his unwavering courage, remains steadfast in the face of adversity. He is courageous enough to stand up for his views, despite facing the wrath of those in power. Giles' bravery is notable when he refuses to disclose the names of the individuals who had informed him of their involvement with witchcraft. He is aware of the consequences of defying the court, but he does not give in to their pressure, proving his unyielding commitment to justice.

Despite his strength and courage, Giles is still human and possesses moments of vulnerability. Giles' moment of vulnerability arises in Act IV when he is unable to recite his prayer, stating, "It were Rebecca that first told me of the dead rising in Salem. But now, sir, I cannot recall where I read that, or who told me it – a minister?" John Hale's response (as Giles had predicted) is to ask him a follow-up question, and he admits to knowing "no Scripture" and is "not a learned man, sir." This conversation underlines Giles's limited education, implying that he may struggle with reading and writing, even though he possesses other positive qualities.

The Significance of Giles Corey's Character

Furthermore, Giles' downfall, punishment, and death illustrate the consequences of speaking out in a society with prevalent fear and paranoia. The significance of Giles's character is that he embodies the negative consequences of individualism. He is aware that his beliefs will lead to the court's retribution, but his desire for justice outweighs his apprehension. Giles represents the struggle between maintaining one's beliefs and values in a society that punishes the slightest deviation from the norm. Giles's death, along with that of John Proctor, represents the ultimate sacrifice for one's beliefs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Giles Corey is one of the most intriguing and crucial characters in "The Crucible" whose character traits should not be overlooked. He is a straightforward, courageous, and vulnerable individual who struggles with his lack of education and is not afraid to speak his mind. His character significantly impacts the plot by representing the negative consequences of individualism in an era of widespread fear and paranoia. Giles Corey's importance lies in his ability to evoke empathy and admiration from the readers who closely analyze his character traits, portraying the reality of human struggle and sacrifice for standing up for one's beliefs.