Examples Of Lack Of Courage In The Crucible

Fear, Isolation, and Lack of Courage Repeat Themselves in History

It is often seen that history repeats itself. Although the events may seem different, the players new, many mistakes are often repeated throughout time. Fear appears in many historical events. It is usually earned by not knowing or understanding what is happening. This fear often leads to isolation. People are afraid and do not want to be around others. In addition, in times of difficulties, many people lack the courage to stand up for their beliefs or for others. These themes are seen many times throughout history. It is easy to see that The Crucible by Arthur Miller, McCarthyism in the 1950’s and 60’s, led by Senator Joseph McCarthy, and the fear of AIDS each caused similar

The people of Salem feared witches and anyone who may be associated with witches or witchcraft. This is evident when Mrs. Putnam says, "Tituba knows how to speak to the dead, Mr. Parris" (Miller 15). She is convinced that Tituba is a witch and she is scared of her. This fear led to mass hysteria as people turned on their own family and friends. Fear is also seen in the late 1940’s to 1950’s when Senator Joseph McCarthy set his sites on stopping the spread of Communism and anyone associated with it. His attacks brought fear to many Americans, especially those in Hollywood. This fear led to mass hysteria as people waited to be brought before the House Un-American Activities Committee where they answered questions about themselves as well as close family and friends. In addition, the first cases of AIDS in the

These accusations led to isolation from family and friends. Reverend Hale, in The Crucible, along with several prominent citizens of Salem became determined to rid the town of witches. Accusations flowed freely and led to imprisonment and death unless the accused agreed to confess. These actions led to isolationism. No one wanted to be accused so they attempted to remain isolated from the other citizens of Salem. Those who were accused, whether innocent or guilty, were required to admit to being a witch and sign a paper that would be displayed in the town square. Most did whatever was necessary to survive. However, men like John Proctor, chose death over admitting to such untruths. For this he was publicly hanged. This same scene tactic is seen again during the Red Scare as one by one people were brought into hearings. They were asked to admit to being a Communist, or at some point in their lives of being a member of the Communist party. The accusers sometimes had no proof other than hearsay to support these accusations, but this did not stop them. Similar to The Crucible, no real proof was necessary and this led the accused to become isolated from the rest of society. If the accused person admitted to the crime or a belief in Communism they received a pardon, asked to turn others in, and then allowed to return to their lives. Those, like John Proctor, in The Crucible, who refused to admit to a false accusation