Mass Hysteria In The Crucible

In Salem, Massachusetts, in the time of 1692, mass hysteria was created around witches and the idea of the devil being alive in Salem. Salem was a theocratic society meaning that its government is controlled by religious beliefs and practices. As a result of this government, and the era this story takes place, Men took a more commanding role in society. The men took care of the land, and their livestock, and were tasked by God to provide for their families. On the other hand, women in this age took a more quiet role in society. They were compelled to meet the needs of the men. The women cooked food and cleaned the house while the men were out in the fields working. Before the trials had taken place, there was already suspicion of sin in Salem.

They were seen in the community as “enlightened” by God. Abigail Williams seized control of this power. She used her newfound influence to accuse those who were not siding with her, or to accuse those that she wished to be gone. Abigail's sights fell on Elizabeth Proctor, since Abigail wished to take John as her own. This power found by the children was opposite of that in a usual puritan community. Children were usually expected to walk with their head down with their hands at their sides, and not to speak unless spoken to, yet here in Salem, they hold the power to accuse and

First with the accusation of Elizabeth Proctor, in order to take John as her own. Abigail continued to make accusations and fake distress in order to keep her power and status in the community and the court. The other girls who danced in the forest joined in on the hysteria that Abigail continued to create to cause chaos and confusion in the community, and to keep the judges on their side. Although Reverend Parris already knew the truth about this hysteria, he did not stop Abigail from accusing and condemning the people of Salem to hang. He continued to play a part in Abigails game as he was more worried about his status and entailments than the people of his