As the hysteria spreads, new characters become figures of authority, based on the universal fear of being accused in a court where it is impossible to prove one's innocence. Mary Warren, a poor, terrified servant girl in act 1, becomes a figure of authority in act 2 based on her position with the court.
Fear and authority occupy vital roles in The Crucible. Fear was critical in the establishment of authority. Reverend Parris comes to understand that if he is able to manipulate the paranoia of witchcraft washing over the town, he can gain more power. People will look at him as a source of power because of their fear.
