Overview
Act 3 of "The Crucible" centers on the chaos and escalating intensity of the Salem Witch Trials courtroom, with key revelations, accusations, and pivotal consequences for several main characters.
Courtroom Proceedings and Interruptions
- Judge Hawthorne questions Martha Corey about witchcraft charges.
- Giles Corey interrupts, accusing Thomas Putnam of ulterior motives tied to land acquisition.
- Giles is removed from the courtroom and later berated for his behavior.
- Proceedings are temporarily paused due to the disruption.
Mary Warren's Confession
- Mary Warren admits she has never seen spirits and that her previous accusations were fake.
- She seeks to reveal the truth behind the falsehoods in Salem.
Evidence and Continued Skepticism
- Danforth informs John Proctor that Elizabeth Proctor is pregnant, delaying her trial.
- John submits signatures from 91 locals vouching for Elizabeth, Rebecca, and Martha's character.
- Danforth distrusts these endorsements and orders all signatories to be summoned for questioning.
Further Accusations and Arrests
- Giles Corey accuses Thomas Putnam of manipulating accusations for land but refuses to reveal his source.
- Danforth arrests Giles for contempt of court.
Abigail, John Proctor, and the Affair Revelation
- Abigail denies Mary's confession and accuses Mary of witchcraft through theatrical displays.
- John Proctor reveals his affair with Abigail to expose her motives.
- Elizabeth is questioned about the affair and lies to protect John, undermining his testimony.
Mary's Breakdown and Proctor's Arrest
- Abigail and the girls pretend Mary is attacking them supernaturally.
- Under pressure, Mary accuses John of consorting with the devil.
- John Proctor is arrested after despairingly declaring "God is dead."
Reverend Hale's Resignation
- Reverend Hale, disillusioned by the court's actions, quits in anger.
Decisions
- All signatories to character statements are to be questioned by the court.
- Giles Corey is arrested for contempt of court.
- Mary Warren is sentenced to be hanged.
- John Proctor is arrested for witchcraft.
- Reverend Hale resigns from the court.