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The Crucible Justice Analysis

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Justice is key to the functionality of society. However, individuals often have a different understanding of what it means to carry out justice. In The Crucible by Arthur Miller, Abigail’s search for recompense and righteousness is, in reality, a search for revenge. Though unsuccessful, this search portrays Abigail’s character develops the subject of vengeance into a theme of the work. Abigail’s understanding, or rather, misunderstanding of justice develops character and theme within the work. Often the success of one’s search for justice depends on one’s understanding of justice. Abigail believes injustice is any personal attack against her, or when her desires are not fulfilled. Her view of retribution is extremely selfish and self-righteous. …show more content…

For one, Abigail’s misunderstanding of and subsequent search for justice portrays her selfishness. The witch trials are a ploy designed by Abigail to avoid consequences and seek revenge. Upset by Proctor’s rebuff and afraid of being punished for dancing in the woods, she accuses many people of witchcraft in order to shift attention away from her and eliminate Elizabeth. Abigail only thinks of the benefit for herself, disregarding the effect on Proctor, the accused, and the village. In addition, through her reprisal, Abigail proves her cunning and charisma. She is lauded as a saviour of Salem and “where she walks the crowd will part like the sea for Israel” (Miller 53). Abigail cleverly shifts the focus from her to those she accuses, therefore hiding her true motivation. Because of her charm the whole village is caught up in her lies; they are blind to her search for personal vengeance rather than societal justice. However, Abigail’s lack of moral accountability is uncovered as she refuses to take responsibility for her actions. Abigail is quick to place the blame on others; she blames Elizabeth for her rejection by Proctor. Furthermore, she quickly explains that it is “Not I, sir-Tituba and Ruth” (Miller 16) who conjured spirits in the woods, despite Abigail being the one to drink a charm. As a whole, Abigail’s search for retaliation disguised as justice, not only explains her true character, but also imparts the anguish endured by the

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