Brief Plot Summary: The Crucible takes place in Salem Massachusetts in 1692. Within the first pages of the book we learn that Betty, the daughter of Reverend Parris, is very sick. Parris is struck with grief, as rumours of witchcraft have been suspected due to her “unnatural” sickness. He kneels by her bedside praying for her to get better. It 's at this point were Parris’ niece, Abigail, is introduced. Many more of the key characters arrive, such as Mr. & Mrs. Putnam, Tituba and John proctor. It is later stated that the cause of Betty’s unknown sickness is the product of Abigail 's dancing (they believe she was trying to conjure up the Devil); she admits to drink the blood of a chicken to kill Goody proctor. This is due to the …show more content…
30: “There is either obedience or the church will burn like Hell is burning!” In this quote by Parris, he is talking about the complete and utter devotion from all Puritans. Being a minister, he is humbled and does not live off of much, yet is being tested by the other characters in this passage for his demands for the deed of his house. Angered, Parris brings up that they cannot cross him or contradict him as a minister. They all however need to respect him and remain completely devoted/submissive to God or ,as stated, or the church itself will burn.
Pg 17: “Will you leave me now, Thomas? I would pray for a while alone” Parris turns to the only thing the Puritans knew how to do in time of need: pray. Calling out to the Lord was his only option to get Betty better. It is later stated on the page that he should conduct a reading of a psalm to enlighten the people gathered out in the streets, which he declines. His devotion to God is present, even when he knows he has no right to mess with God’s plans. So he just prays and hopes that Betty will soon get better.
Pg. 24: “…now you bid me tear the light out of my eyes? I will not, I cannot! You loved me, John Proctor, and whatever sin it is, you love me yet!”