Overview
This scene from "The Crucible" takes place at the Proctor household, highlighting the escalating witch trials in Salem and the personal stakes for John and Elizabeth Proctor as accusations expand and tensions rise.
Witch Trials in Salem
- Four judges arrive from Boston to investigate witchcraft accusations.
- The number of jailed individuals rises from 14 to 39.
- Mary Warren, the Proctors' servant, attends court and brings Elizabeth a sewn doll.
Accusations Against Elizabeth Proctor
- Elizabeth suspects Abigail has accused her of witchcraft to eliminate her as a rival for John.
- Mary confirms she defended Elizabeth in court but implies Abigail’s involvement in the accusation.
- Elizabeth warns John about Abigail’s motives and urges him to expose the lies in Salem.
Reverend Hale’s Investigation
- Reverend Hale visits the Proctors to question their religious adherence.
- John is questioned about his third son's baptism and struggles to recite the Ten Commandments, forgetting adultery until prompted by Elizabeth.
- Hale remains suspicious of John’s faith.
Arrests and Worsening Situation
- Giles Corey and Francis Nurse announce their wives' arrests on dubious grounds.
- Giles regrets seeking Hale's help earlier, as it led to trouble for his wife.
Search and Arrest of Elizabeth Proctor
- Ezekiel Cheever searches the Proctor home for the doll, finding a needle inside.
- Cheever claims Abigail accused Elizabeth of using her spirit to stab Abigail with a needle.
- Mary insists she left the needle in the doll while sewing.
John Proctor’s Response
- John angrily destroys the warrant and protests Elizabeth’s arrest.
- Despite his anger, Elizabeth prepares herself for the possibility of being taken away.
Conflict Over Exposing the Truth
- John insists Mary testify in court to the true story about the doll and accusations.
- Mary fears retaliation and exposure of John's past affair with Abigail.
- John is willing to risk his reputation to exonerate Elizabeth.
- Mary repeatedly refuses to testify as the act concludes.
Decisions
- John decides to expose Abigail’s lies in court, even if it means revealing his own affair.
Action Items
- TBD – John & Mary: Go to court and reveal the truth about the doll and Abigail’s false accusations, if Mary agrees.