The Crucible

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1953

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Reading, Discussion & Quiz Questions

READING CHECK

1. What is the system of government in Salem in the time the play is set?

Answer: theocracy

2. Parris asks Abigail about being dismissed from her servant job. Who dismissed her?

Answer: Elizabeth Proctor

3. According to Putnam, how can Parris avoid suspicion of witchcraft in his house?

Answer: Claim that he (Parris) discovered it there himself

4. How does Abigail try to convince Ruth and Mary Warren to stick to their story?

Answer: She threatens to hurt or kill them.

Discussion Suggestion: Use the above question to introduce discussion on Abigail’s multifaceted character. Over the course of the scene, how does her demeanor change, and around what other characters? What are her internal motivations and goals? Explore lines in the text that provide indirect characterization clues about Abby’s true nature.

5. According to Betty, whom did Abigail conjure spirits to kill?

Answer: Elizabeth Proctor

6. According to Ann Putnam, Betty grows hysterical when she hears what?

Answer: The Lord’s name in the psalm

7. Who questions John Proctor’s land ownership and reminds the room that he doesn’t attend church?

Answer: Thomas Putnam

8. Shortly after Hale’s arrival, which characters openly accuse others of consorting with the devil?

Answer: Tituba, Abigail, and Betty

QUIZ

1. In the face of her uncle’s questions, how does Abigail explain her inability to find work?