What Are Danforth's Motives In The Crucible

In every decision motives are needed. Intentions can be good or bad. Leaders who drive for their own power have been involved the deadliest events in history. The Salem witch trials were built on choices for self profit. In the play, The Crucible, Arthur Miller reveals that a fearful combined with selfish motives can have disastrous effects through flawed leaders.
Reverend Parris’ actions are based on what will benefit him because he is paranoid due to the intensity of the atmosphere in Salem. Parris is sure “there is a faction that is sworn to… ruin [him]”(10). Only a guilty man in man in his position would have any reason to be worried. Parris is greedy because he is only concerned with himself. He is so paranoid that he believes the town will overthrow a minister. The town must have a reason for …show more content…
Danforth is close minded to the point where “a person is either with [the] court or… against it; there [is] no road between” (94). He is so molded by the trials that he does not realize that it is normal for someone to be against a friend or family member being accused of witchcraft. Many cannot fight or stand up to him due to his higher authority, for they are frightened of being accused themselves. Danforth uses this fear to keep them from revolting because they cannot openly share concerns without being a target. Danforth knows that any “ postponement [will speak] a floundering on [his] part” (129). He is too stubborn to admit he has been deceived by a group of young girls because it has gone on for so long, and his reputation will be ruined. If the trials are found to be false, Danforth will lose his authority and power due to the large number of innocent people who are in jail or dead because of him. His reputation is all he has and losing it scares him. Danforth’s position gives him selfish intentions and a stubborn attitude in the midst of great