| 1. What is the symbolism of the cows? (short)
2. Why do the characters keep mentioning Andover and what significance does it have for Salem? (short)
3. Reflect on Parris’ argument to Danforth: “Now Mr. Hale
is returned there is hope, I think—for if he bring even one of these
to God, that confession surely damns the others in the public eye, and
none may doubt more that they are all linked to Hell. This way, unconfessed
and claiming innocence, doubts are multiplied, many honest people will
weep for them, and our good purpose is lost in their tears.”
4. Reflect on Danforth’s statement: “I should hang ten thousand
that dared to rise against the law, and an ocean of salt tears could not
melt the resolution of the statutes.” What does this reveal about
his character? How is he similar to Creon in Antigone?
5. Reflect on Hale’s statement, “I come to do the Devil’s
work. I come to counsel Christians that they should belie themselves.
There is blood on my head! Can you not see the blood on my head!!!”
Be sure to reference his statement on page 132 to explain why he acts
as he does.
6. Explain and reflect on how Giles died. (short-ish)
7. Give a few examples and discuss Miller’s use of irony in Act
IV.
8. What is the symbolism of making Proctor sign his name to the confession?
(short)
9. Reflect on Proctor’s statement: “Because it is my name!
Because I cannot have another in my life! Because I lie and sign myself
to lies! Because I am not worth the dust on the feet of them that hang!
How may I live without my name? I have given my soul; leave me my name!”
10. Reflect on Proctor’s statement: “You have made your magic
now, for now I do think I see some shred of goodness in John Proctor.
Not enough to weave a banner with, but white enough to keep it from such
dogs.”
11. Why does Elizabeth let Proctor die? Why doesn’t she convince
him to confess?
12. Analyze how Miller plays with the concept of reputation and integrity in this final scene. How does Proctor's vanity, his arguably superficial concern for his name, actually redeem his soul? Danforth? Parris? Hale?
13. Is John Proctor a tragic hero? Explain.
14. List several of the main themes of the play and explain them.
15. Discuss the connection between McCarthyism and the play.
16. Why is the play titled The Crucible?
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