WEEK 8 HOMEWORK

Look up the meaning of the word which constitutes the title of the play, "crucible", and give a dictionary definition. How appropriate do you consider the title to be? Write a paragraph in answer, referring to one of the play's themes to justify your response. Post on your blog before 8.20 Tuesday.  I was able to locate three variations of the definition for Crucible: 1. A vessel made of a refractory substance such as graphite or porcelain, used for melting and calcining materials at high temperatures. 2. A severe test, as of patience or belief; a trial. See Synonyms at trial. 3. A place, time, or situation characterized by the confluence of powerful intellectual, social, economic, or political forces I believe the title is highly appropriate as The Crucible is a severe test of belief and patience, and it is certainly characterized by the confluence of powerful intellectual and political forces. For instance, one theme strongly portrayed during the play is that of loyalty. Loyalty no doubt tests the commitment one has to their beliefs and their community. There are a few characters in the play who do show this character trait positively, for example, Rebecca Nurse, who despite the uproar and pressures to confess, remains loyal to God and her faith. Other characters do not possess such characteristics, instead having betrayed God and their friends. This is represented well in the character of Abigail Williams. Abigail betrays her beliefs, she lies and sins. Additionally, she blackmails and wrongs her friends, as she accuses innocent people in order to save herself. In terms of 'a situation characterised by the confluence of powerful intellectual and political forces', the Crucible shows this through the use of abuse of power and authority. This can be seen when Parris uses his role as reverend to make accusations and uneccessary input. The Salem trials is an event of total anarchy, and everyone uses the opportunity to blame those who they do not respect in any sense, abusing their given rights to save themselves. I think the title is highly relevant to the situation. It is undoubtedly a test of belief and a situation that is characterised by the powerful intellectual and political forces.