Crucible by Arthur Miller A Rebellion
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A Rebellion
The Crucible, by Arthur Miller, is a play that portrays an unusual form of rebellion against normal society. Salem, a small town based on the system of theocracy, as many other colonial American towns were at that time, has strict traditions and rules. The people of Salem have a narrowminded idea of what "normal" is. For example, if someone misses church twice in one year, the community adjusts their view of this individual and accepts him or her into society less than before. During the insane period of the witch trials, the structure of Salem is changed and the power goes into the hands of ordinarily insignificant beings: the girls who were previously powerless. The events in The Crucible are an example of challenging what is supposedly "normal" and going to drastic measures to make an impact on the community.
Before the "witch hunt," Salem was a typical Puritan town of the 1600's. Everything in the town was centered around religion; the reverend was a very influential leader. All customs and beliefs were based on principles of modesty and loyalty to God. The members of the community had a very defined view of how life was supposed to be lived - with no luxuries or "evils" that were thought to be connected with the Devil...