About the Book

The Crucible by Arthur Miller was written in 1952, is inspired by the Salem Witch Trials and McCarthyism. The play itself is based in 1652 puritan colony Salem, Massachusetts. The puritans had a strong belief that they were chosen by God for a special purpose, and that they must live up to this expectation. Many of the characters in The Crucible embody stereotypical characteristics of 17th century puritans.

Miller bases the play on three girls, Abigail, Mary, and Mercy. These three girls and one of their slaves have been caught playing, or conjouring, in the woods, supposedly trying to conjure spirits from the dead. After the Mercy, Mary, Abigail, and Tituba (the slave), were caught, they childlishly pointed a finger at other people in Salem. Witchcraft then was 'spread' through Salem, resulting in more deaths and hangings. Eventually, the three girls were taken to court, where they avoided their deaths by accusing others in Salem. After the girls were taken to court, there was a deep mistrust within Salem, Massachusetts community, causing more reported events of witchcraft. In turn, this lead to 19 men and women being hanged, just in Salem.

("Critical Essays Historical Period: Puritans in Salem")

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