Download A Syncon for The Crucible

A Syncon for The Crucible
Controlling Question: What are the themes illustrated
in Arthur Miller’s The Crucible?
DAY # 1
GROUP #1: SETTING
Detail the setting of the play. Specifically, describe Salem in 1692. Remember
that setting includes the actual physical geography, occupation and daily manner of
living, the time or period of the action, and the general environment of the characters,
e. g., religious, mental, moral, social, and emotional.
Why could this play only take place during the Puritan Era?
GROUP #2: IRONY & TONE
Look at irony in this play. Irony of situation exists when events, either in literature
or in real life, contradict what we consider predictable or appropriate. An irony is more
than just surprise; it forces us to reflect on the painful twists and turns of human nature
and experience. It is ironic, for example, that Parris’ household contains sinners when
Parris himself is outspoken in condemning sin. Find at least SIX more ironic situations in
The Crucible.
Tone is a term designating the attitudes toward the subject and toward the
audience implied in a literary work. A work may have formal, informal, intimate, solemn,
somber, playful, amusing, serious, ironic, condescending, or any of many attitudes.
Describe the tone of this play and how Miller develops it.
GROUP # 3: SYMBOLISM
In a work of literature, an object or character that intends to be associated with an
abstract idea or theme is called a symbol. Great literature tends to be symbolic in that the
specifics of the story are suggestive of general features of human experience. Find at least
FIVE objects that are symbolic and determine what they symbolize. Do the same with
FIVE of the characters. Be able to use specifics to support your answer.
GROUP #4: CHARACTERIZATION I
Miller often develops his characters in pairs, showing how different people
behave in different situations. With the names listed below, decide the most appropriate
pairings, according to a similar background or status. Then chart at least one similarity
and at least one difference for each, using specific examples to support your points. The
characters are Abigail, Parris, Putnam, Rebecca, Mary, Elizabeth, Proctor, and Hale.
GROUP #5: CHARACTERIZATION OF HALE AND DANFORTH
Hale and Danforth share many characteristics. Compare their actions. What role
do they each share in Salem? What motivates their actions? BE SPECIFIC. Trace each’s
actions to see how and when he uses his position throughout the play. Was each
character’s behavior consistent? If yes, support how with examples. If not, support how
he was inconsistent with examples.
GROUP #6: CHARACTERIZATION OF JOHN PROCTOR
Most critics of The Crucible, believe that John Proctor represents individuality.
Support this point of view. What actions does Proctor take, chronologically, that support
this view? What is Proctor’s ultimate conflict? Who or what is contrasted against
Proctor? Why?
DAY
2
GROUPS # 1 & 5:
What happens to daily life in Salem during the witch trials? Why? What causes
these changes? (HINT: Look to see what motivates the girls, Giles, Elizabeth, Danforth,
Hale and Proctor to action.)
You need at least 10 specific examples with explanations.
GROUPS# 2 & 3:
The Puritans prized a strong, close-knit community. Theirs was a community
where conformity was the rule. How does the Puritan strength, especially in religious
spirit, ironically make them vulnerable to the Salem witch-hunt? Determine the seeds of
unrest in the community that could have foreshadowed this event.
GROUPS# 4 & 6:
One meaning of “crucible” is a severe test or trial. Many characters in this play
are subject to such a test or trial. Keeping in mind their environment, their station in life,
and their religious background as factors influencing their actions and decisions,
comment as to the characters that fared such a test and how they did. Use specific actions
to support your points.