The allegory is: An extended, symbolical metaphor used to make a point or teach a lesson. In this case, the McCarthy Trials and false accusations of communism paralleled the Salem Witch Trials.
The statement “The crucible was written as an allegory reflecting a particular time in American history and therefore its message is irrelevant to modern audience” holds untrue. The Play contains insight into human behaviour and how we can control and effect those around us through our actions. This has held true throughout time to present day. There are many themes that arise within the play that are relevant to modern society. These include the use of fear to control others, hysteria to tear apart stable societies, and infidelity which is ever increasing today and how it can continue to affect those involved. …show more content…
Throughout both periods, people lived in fear. During the McCarthy Era, freedom was the most important aspect of life and people were constantly in fear of being accused of being a communist. In the time of the Salem Witch Trials, religion was being the most important aspect, by which people lived by. It was the fear of witches and witchcraft that was a threat to society and the village.
The character Abigail controls the rest of the girls in Arthur Miller's The Crucible through the use of fear. The girls are afraid of her, and perhaps for good reason. One specific incident that support this idea and happens early in Act I, was in Betty’s bedroom after the night of dancing naked in the