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Examples Of Internal Conflict In The Crucible

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Zamann Momin Ms. Sharber AP English III - 1 5 October 2016 Internal Conflict in The Crucible: Reverend Hale Throughout literature, decisive characters are traditionally forced to undergo a form of internal struggle, that contributes to the meaning of the work as a whole. In The Crucible, Reverend Hale demonstrates such extreme strife, as he is forced to argue for the exoneration of the wrongly condemned, including Proctor and Rebecca Nurse, or to remain bound to his religion and the imperious court. At the start of the play, Hale is introduced as an utterly devout Christian and learned interpreter of the art of witchcraft, giving him a sense of credibility in assessing the supernatural predicament of Salem. In doing so, he is the first to legitimize the presence of satanic …show more content…

However, as he discovers more about the accused themselves, Hale begins to doubt his initial judgment, and questions the competency of the court in honestly assessing the witch trials. Yet, in fear of choosing a side, Hale becomes tactfully neutral and desperate for the truth, as he advocates for “proof so immaculate” that the verdict would be just and indelible (188). His logical and analytical nature lends him towards Proctor’s argument, but he is compelled to stay firm with the law, especially as Danforth and Parris challenge his loyalty throughout the case. During the trials, the Reverend experiences a foreboding guilt for the first time, as he recognizes his culpability in the lives that he may have incorrectly denounced. Although he has the power to defend his conscience, his religious duty and responsibilities towards the court

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