Judge Danforth In The Crucible

In The Crucible by Arthur Miller the head judge, Danforth, is both feared and looked up upon. While presented with the challenge of ruling all of the witch trials, Danforth takes the position with confidence. Danforth sets all of the rules for the trials including one that dismisses ones hanging if they plead guilty. Slowly, everyone becomes less fond of Danforth as they realize their ignorance, however, Danforth fails to do the same. Danforth’s superstition and arrogance obscures his view to the law and causes unjustful hangings. Danforth lets his superstition take control of his rulings and in turn puts people to death. During an intermission between trials Mary Warren, accompanied by Hales and John Proctor, tries to talk some sense

When others challenge Danforth and his views he does not quiver when it comes to a snarky act of retaliation. While during one of the trials, Giles, an elderly man who is trying to defend his wife, questions Danforth. Danforth yells at Giles for disrespecting him as Giles is questioning his opinion on a matter. Giles states that he means “no disrespect” (79) to judge Danforth, however, Danforth lets his haughty self get to him and he shouts “Disrespect indeed!” (79). Danforth is never pleased when he is questioned. This is most likely due to the fact that Danforth is part of “the highest court of the supreme government of this province” (79). Danforth proves himself to be a judge that lets his arrogance and ego affect ruling decisions for the worse. Danforth’s superstition and arrogance is a substantial factor in determining lives and moving the plot forward. Danforth’s actions pursue Abigail to continue to accuse her fellow colonists for participating in the act of witchcraft. Danforth helps fuel the fire that is present in The Crucible and without him the drama that circulates the town would have been nothing but gossip, however, he is able to make it a