What Happened to Giles Corey in Act 4: a Tragic Fate in The Crucible

In Arthur Miller's powerful play "The Crucible," the character of Giles Corey serves as a poignant example of integrity and courage in the face of overwhelming adversity. By Act 4, Corey's fate is sealed in a tragic manner, reflecting the grim realities of the Salem witch trials. This essay delves into what happened to Giles Corey in this act and explores the implications of his actions, ultimately portraying him as a martyr for truth amidst a sea of hysteria.

The Context of Giles Corey’s Character

To fully grasp what happens to Giles Corey in Act 4, we must first understand who he is within the narrative. Giles is portrayed as an elderly farmer with a strong sense of justice and an unyielding spirit. Throughout the play, he becomes increasingly aware of the injustices surrounding him, particularly how accusations can ruin lives without substantial evidence. His determination to defend his wife, Martha Corey, who has been accused of witchcraft, sets him on a path that leads to his tragic end.

The Climax: Accusations and Arrest

By Act 4, the audience witnesses an intense escalation in paranoia and fear among Salem's citizens. The court has become an instrument for revenge rather than justice. Giles's attempt to expose these injustices leads him to confront Deputy Danforth directly about his wife’s wrongful accusation. However, instead of finding support or understanding from those in power, he faces hostility. This culminates in his own arrest; he is accused of contempt for refusing to name another person who had allegedly spoken against the court.

The Torturous End: Pressing to Death

One of the most shocking aspects of Giles Corey's fate is how it reflects both personal sacrifice and systemic brutality. Rather than submit to naming names or confessing under pressure—an act that would tarnish his integrity—Giles chooses a far more painful route: pressing. He is subjected to being pressed under heavy stones—a method intended not just as punishment but also as psychological torture designed to force a confession from him.

This brutal treatment highlights not only Corey's steadfastness but also serves as a commentary on how oppressive regimes can operate under the guise of legal authority while inflicting unimaginable pain on innocent individuals. In refusing to betray his principles even at such great personal cost, Giles becomes emblematic of resistance against tyranny.

A Martyr for Truth

As Act 4 progresses towards its conclusion, it's clear that Giles Corey's ultimate fate elevates him beyond just another victim of hysteria; he transforms into a martyr for truth and righteousness. His last words—“More weight”—resonate deeply within the context of Miller's commentary on individual conscience versus societal pressure. In those words lies an unwavering commitment not only to himself but also to all those wrongfully accused during this dark period.

This moment invites audiences to reflect on larger themes: What does it mean to stand up for truth? What are we willing to sacrifice when confronted by systems that seem irreparably broken? By choosing death over dishonor or betrayal, Corey exemplifies moral fortitude—a quality sorely lacking among many characters who succumbed either through manipulation or self-preservation throughout "The Crucible."

The Legacy Left Behind

Giles's tragic demise doesn’t merely serve as an emotional climax; rather it leaves behind profound implications for both fellow characters within Salem and audiences witnessing their plight from afar. His courageous stance inspires others like John Proctor later in Acts 3 and 4 when faced with similar choices regarding truth versus self-preservation.

Corey’s story compels us not only toward empathy but also urges reflection upon contemporary issues regarding injustice fueled by fear-mongering rhetoric found throughout history—even today! In many ways our societal response could be likened back then where innocent lives are sacrificed due largely because those holding power choose convenience over compassion.

A Final Reflection

Ultimately, what happened to Giles Corey in Act 4 goes beyond mere plot development—it crystallizes key themes central both historically (in relation specifically tied towards McCarthyism) while still remaining relevant today concerning civil liberties struggles seen globally across various nations around world including debates surrounding freedom speech rights! The crushing reality faced by this resolute farmer serves as chilling reminder about consequences yielded whenever silence prevails amongst masses confronted with oppression carried out under masks authority!

Conclusion

Miller crafts a heartbreaking yet empowering narrative through character arcs like that experienced by Giles Corey showcasing resilience coupled unwavering spirit inevitably stands strongest against adversity! His legacy encourages future generations striving uphold fairness compassion regardless societal pressures imposed upon them ensuring never forget sacrifices endured all those fought alongside him including countless others caught midst similarly tumultuous times across histories realms!

• Miller, Arthur. "The Crucible." Penguin Books.
• Sullivan, Margaret A., “Giles Corey: A Study.” Journal American Studies Association Vol 45 (2011): pp 305-312.
• Becker-Haimes , “Fear & Paranoia During Witch Hunts.” Journal Historical Sociology Vol 28 (2020): pp 500-515.