The crucible symbolizes a trial of good and evil based on the scientific definition of measuring how pure something is. The outcome being to single out the bad people from the good. Reverend Hale acts as a guilt-ridden figure seeking redemption for his wrongdoings. He is a man of moral integrity. Who is at first naïve and misguided but later becomes distrusting of the court and realizes the court is corrupted and his beliefs shift to perceiving life as the greatest importance. Through the use of dialogue, stage directions, and other’s reactions this change is seen in the play.
In act one Hale conveys righteousness through his determination in helping the town. He refers to his books being “weighed with authority” (478), implying that they will help dictate if there are witches in Salem. This fails to include the possibility of motives or the involvement of relationships when making this judgement. In these beginning scenes, Hale asks the townspeople to trust him because he is …show more content…
While talking to Proctor he confesses, “And in my opinion, I find it hard to draw a clear opinion of them that come accused before the court.” (494) This is seen through his first case in Salem involving Tituba were he basically forced her to confess as well as the other convicted witches even though he is aware he does not know the full extent of the situation. When Elizabeth is accused of witchcraft it is with “great uncertainty” (502). This represents the start of him questioning if the trial is fair and if the accused are innocent. Proctor’s response to this situation expresses his feelings of dislike toward Hale. During the visit to Proctor’s house he is “flushed with resentment.” (495), Proctor is angered at the fact that people are being accused of witchcraft with little to no evidence and that Hale is trusting the children
In act one Hale conveys righteousness through his determination in helping the town. He refers to his books being “weighed with authority” (478), implying that they will help dictate if there are witches in Salem. This fails to include the possibility of motives or the involvement of relationships when making this judgement. In these beginning scenes, Hale asks the townspeople to trust him because he is …show more content…
While talking to Proctor he confesses, “And in my opinion, I find it hard to draw a clear opinion of them that come accused before the court.” (494) This is seen through his first case in Salem involving Tituba were he basically forced her to confess as well as the other convicted witches even though he is aware he does not know the full extent of the situation. When Elizabeth is accused of witchcraft it is with “great uncertainty” (502). This represents the start of him questioning if the trial is fair and if the accused are innocent. Proctor’s response to this situation expresses his feelings of dislike toward Hale. During the visit to Proctor’s house he is “flushed with resentment.” (495), Proctor is angered at the fact that people are being accused of witchcraft with little to no evidence and that Hale is trusting the children