What Does It Means To Be An American In The Crucible By Arthur Miller

What does it mean to be an American? An American is not simply just “a person who was born in America.” The definition goes beyond birth-place and many other common superficial features. An American is one who seeks conformity, as conformity ensures a lack of judgment from society. As apparent through many time periods of American Literature, a person’s perception within society plays a large role in how they develop themself. If one receives a positive view from society, they are likely to be shown in better light and reach better opportunity. Likewise, if one has a poor reception from society, it may be difficult to thrive. An American is one who seeks conformity to better themselves within society, as perception is a key part of American …show more content…
Throughout the novel, the reader follows the tragic story of John Proctor, who is brought to his demise through the discovery of his adultery. Before his story unfolded to the public, he was a well received member of the town church and a hard- working farmer. He received nothing but respect from his close friends and family, even when feuding with the town priest. This view of him propelled his position within society, making him an influential and powerful figure. However, once his adultery was discovered, he lost all respect from everyone in Salem, and was even sent to be hung. Not only did his new negative perception lead to his demise, but ultimately his death. Overall, the story of John Proctor shows how in American society, people cast judgment upon others to try to reach a norm. Specific to the time period, the story covers the span of the Salem Witch trials because of its significance as a mass hysteria of …show more content…
Scott Fitzgerald. During the time period, wealth equated to one’s social status. If you were rich, you had influence, yet if you were poor, you had none. In the case of Jay Gatsby, he earned his money illegally through bootlegging and had to use ways of hiding his profession while appearing wealthy. If people discovered the source of his wealth he would be shunned by society. He also created an elaborate facade to hide his true upbringing, so he wouldn’t be judged for previously being poor. Furthermore, when his web of lies are exposed, his status is severely diminished. He loses respect from Daisy and Tom and even Jordan Baker. He also faces the false judgement of a man who thought he killed his wife in a hit and run, when really he was innocent. The false negative view of Gatsby led to his death, as the man decided he was guilty from the view of his car during the accident. Overall, Gatsby’s aim of conformity failed and ultimately caused his downfall, as his lies were recognized and his reputation