Theme of Power in The Crucible Essay Sample

Arthur Millers The Crucible(1953) illustrates a wide variety of themes, power being one of these themes.  Power is demonstrated a various number times throughout this play, whether it is a lack of power or too much power.  Power can be both good as well as bad depending on who has the power.  John Proctor along side his wife Elizabeth Proctor of Salem Massachusetts are presented in front of Judge Danforth.  Abigail ,who John has an affair with, accuses John and his wife of witchcraft. Abigails stories raise a number questions. Mr. Hale, The reverend called to Salem to help with the trials, states ¨…and I dare not take a life without there be a proof so immaculate no slightest qualm of conscience may doubt it¨(Miller.III.i.99).  Danforth feels that his power is being questioned and in retaliation responds ¨Mr. Hale, you surely do not doubt my justice?¨(III.i.99) This demonstrates Danforths need for power. While Danforth, Mr. Hale, and Proctor argue, Danforth begins to question Abigails honesty by stating ¨Is is possible, child, that the spirits you have seen are illusion only…¨(III.i.108) In a panicked rush after losing her power, she has to conduct a lie.  Abigail threatens, ``Let you beware, Mr. Danforth.  Think you to be so mighty that the power of Hell may not turn your wits¨(III.i.108)?  Her threat towards Danforth is a last second attempt at getting people to believe her.  If she loses her power, nobody will believe her anymore, this outcome results in her in addition to the girls getting in trouble.  After some time, Power is shown yet again.  Parris, the reverend from Salem, demonstrates a major lack of power.  Parris addresses Danforth by stating ¨Tonight when I open my door to leave my house-a dagger clattered to the ground¨(IV.i.128).  The people of Salem are beginning to grow tired of the constant killings, resulting in the people going after Parris, stabbing a dagger in his front door.  Parris realises that he is becoming powerless and they need to change the results of the hangings. A number of characters in The Crucible illustrate power.  Whether it be a lack of power or an abundance of power, this theme affects the story in a variety of ways, Such as Danforths need for power and John Proctor's lack of power at the end of the story when he feels he has to choice but to hang because he won't give up his reputation.