B) Elizabeth ruined Abigail's reputation by accusing her of adultery.
C) Parris believed his daughter to be possessed by the devil.
D) Abigail gained power by accusing others of witchcraft.
Explanation:
For many people, the Salem Witch trials provided an opportunity to make a wide range of allegations of witchcraft against anybody suspected of witchcraft in the community. Consequently, those in the poorer classes of society were aware of having control over others by accusing someone of witchcraft for whatever excuse they could think of. The Crucible's setting reflects the sense of confidence that individuals feel throughout the witch trials. The play also explores the societal problem of people abusing their positions of authority, both for themselves and for others around them.
