Who Is Abigail Williams Influence In The Crucible

In the small Puritan town of Salem, Massachusetts during the 1690s, hysteria and fear run rampant as accusations of witchcraft spread like wildfire, tearing families and communities apart. But as the trial proceedings heat up, the true motivations behind each character's actions become clearer, revealing a tale not just of witchcraft, but of power, jealousy, and the corrupting influence of fear. Although many readers would argue that Thomas Danforth is the judge and the head of the law and religion, it can be argued that Abigail Williams, a young Puritan girl, has more power and significant influence over the society as she accuses many innocents of witchcraft and questions Danforth’s authority. During the heated argument between Danforth and Abigail in the court,

(Miller 192).” In this scene she questions the court and absolutely no one speaks against her or even arrest her for daring the judge’s power. Some readers might say that since Danforth is the judge he has the ability to ultimately decide the fate of a person; although that is true, Abigail's power is amplified by the credibility she holds among the people and the court, who believe in the reality of witchcraft and the devil's presence. This results in no person being able to speak against Abigail. Additionally, the Puritan people believe that she is “God’s child” and Danforth can’t really speak against “God’s child” and make false decisions or else he would face punishments and lose his reputation. In order for Danforth to keep his head high and maintain his power he also says “Child, I don’t mistrust you--” in a weakening voice. Abigail is a manipulative and cunning character who uses her wit and cunning to assert herself in the trials and maintain her power. Her power also comes form her ability to manipulate the beliefs and fears of the people around her, especially in the court of law. She uses her accusations of witchcraft to control the proceedings and further her personal