Giles Corey Character Analysis in The Crucible

Arthur Miller's play, The Crucible, is a powerful exploration of the Salem witch trials and the hysteria that gripped the town in the late 17th century. One of the intriguing characters in the play is Giles Corey, a strong-willed and outspoken farmer who finds himself caught in the chaos and madness of the witch trials. Throughout the play, Giles Corey demonstrates several key character traits that contribute to his role in the narrative and his ultimate fate. This essay will analyze Giles Corey's character traits, exploring his determination, loyalty, and bravery, and how these traits shape his actions and interactions in the play.

Giles Corey's Determination

One of the most prominent character traits of Giles Corey is his unwavering determination. From his first appearance in the play, it is clear that Giles is a man who stands by his principles and is willing to fight for what he believes is right. When the accusations of witchcraft begin in Salem, Giles is quick to defend his wife, Martha, against the claims made by the girls. He refuses to believe in the supernatural and is determined to prove that the accusations are false.

Giles' determination is evident when he confronts the court and demands that they provide evidence for their accusations. In Act III, Giles enters the courtroom with a deposition, which he believes will exonerate his wife. However, the court refuses to hear his evidence unless he reveals the name of the person who gave him the information. Despite the threat of being arrested for contempt of court, Giles remains resolute and refuses to give up the name, stating "I will not give you no name. I mentioned my wife's name once and I'll burn in hell long enough for that. I stand mute." This act of defiance showcases Giles' determination to protect his wife and his unwillingness to compromise his principles.

Giles Corey's determination also extends to his pursuit of justice. In Act IV, when the trials have reached their peak and many innocent lives have been lost, Giles joins a group of men who attempt to stop the proceedings by presenting evidence of the girls' deceit. Despite the risks involved, Giles is determined to put an end to the madness and restore justice to Salem. This determination ultimately leads to his arrest and tragic death, as he is pressed to death for refusing to enter a plea.

Giles Corey's Loyalty

Another important character trait of Giles Corey is his unwavering loyalty. Throughout the play, Giles remains loyal to his friends and loved ones, even in the face of adversity. This loyalty is most evident in his relationship with his wife, Martha. Despite the accusations of witchcraft against her, Giles stands by Martha and defends her against the claims made by the girls.

Giles' loyalty is also seen in his interactions with John Proctor. In Act II, when Proctor is arrested and accused of witchcraft, Giles gathers evidence to prove his friend's innocence. He confronts the court and provides a deposition in which he accuses Thomas Putnam of using the trials to settle personal grudges and gain land. Giles' loyalty to his friend goes beyond mere words, as he puts himself at risk by openly opposing the court and its corrupt proceedings.

Furthermore, Giles' loyalty is not limited to his immediate circle of friends and family. In Act III, when the court refuses to hear his evidence without the name of the informant, Giles chooses to protect the identity of the person who confided in him. This act of loyalty puts his own life in danger, but he remains steadfast in his commitment to protect others.

Giles Corey's Bravery

In addition to his determination and loyalty, Giles Corey also displays remarkable bravery throughout the play. Despite the fear and uncertainty that pervade Salem, Giles remains resolute and unafraid to challenge the authorities and the prevailing beliefs of the community.

Giles' bravery is evident when he confronts the court and demands evidence for the accusations of witchcraft. In a society where questioning the court's authority is seen as an act of rebellion, Giles fearlessly challenges their methods and demands justice. He refuses to be silenced or intimidated, even in the face of personal danger.

Furthermore, Giles' bravery is seen in his final moments. When he is arrested and pressed to death for refusing to enter a plea, Giles remains defiant and unyielding. Rather than compromising his principles or betraying his friends, he chooses to face a gruesome death with courage and dignity. This act of bravery serves as a powerful statement against the injustice and hysteria of the Salem witch trials.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Giles Corey's character in The Crucible is defined by his determination, loyalty, and bravery. These character traits shape his actions and interactions throughout the play, as he fights to protect his loved ones, seek justice, and challenge the authority of the court. Giles' unwavering determination to defend his wife and prove the innocence of his friends, his loyalty to those he cares about, and his bravery in the face of adversity make him a compelling and memorable character. Through his character, Arthur Miller explores themes of integrity, justice, and the power of individual resistance in the face of mass hysteria. Giles Corey serves as a reminder of the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the darkest of times.