Read this Knowledge Article about the common themes in The Crucible alluding to the Salem witch trials and the McCarthy hearings
and their connection to the events in the play. Then, select any theme from the play and write two to three paragraphs analyzing how the theme is developed through the text.
A major theme in The Crucible is fear. Many of the characters in the story act out of fear of being accused or hung for crimes they didn't commit. It starts for the most part, with the town being fearful of whatever illness or power has come over Betty, who is sick and in bed. Many believe that witchcraft is the cause for Betty's illness and this is what begins the accusations throughout the story. It begins with Abigail and the girls who were seen in the woods.
