Question

PARRIS: There is either obedience or the church will burn like hell is burning. In at least 100 words, describe in your own words what is meant by this statement taken from Act I, Scene 1.

Answer 1

What lies at the root of Parris character is the idea of binary oppositions. Parris is either convinced that the individual is the agent of Satan or that the person is in accord with him to whatever he does. Parris either view himself as discarded or in total control. Like Salem, he sees the world much in binary oppositions. The quote is relevant to Paaris because there is no complexity or complexed consciousness. He believes either the church will suffer, or he will have complete devotion from his followers. Parris states a distinct line that the one who disputes will be cast into hell or either he will get a total submission from his followers.

Through his statement, he directly attacks the Proctor. Proctor has represented himself opposite, as not an advocate to Parris and that he is not in prescription with the organized religion of the church. To such opposition, Parris forms the base of “either you are with me or against me”. For Parris threat and fear is the sole way to ensure loyalty and faithfulness. Hence, Proctor does not believe in such a way.