What motivates Danforth in The Crucible
The Crucible
The Crucible is a 1953 play by American playwright Arthur Miller. It is a dramatized and partially fictionalized story of the Salem witch trials that took place in the Massachusetts Bay Colony during 1692–93. Miller wrote the play as an allegory for McCarthyism, when the United State…
What does Judge Danforth represent in the Crucible?
Judge Danforth Character Analysis in The Crucible | SparkNotes Governor Danforth represents rigidity and an over-adherence to the law in The Crucible. Danforth is clearly an intelligent man, highly respected and successful. He arrives in Salem to oversee the trials of the accused witches with a serene sense of his own ability to judge fairly.
What is Danforth's role in the Salem witch trials?
A complicated character, it is Danforth's responsibility to run the trials and decide if the good people of Salem who are accused of witchcraft are really witches. Unfortunately for them, the judge is incapable of finding fault in the young girls behind the allegations.
How does Judge Danforth react to people questioning his decision-making ability?
If a character, such as Giles Corey or Francis Nurse, attempts to defend his wife, Judge Danforth contends that the advocate is trying to overthrow the court. The judge seems to believe that his perception is flawless. He is insulted when anyone questions his decision-making ability.
How old was Judge Danforth when he came to Salem?
He was about 60, He came to Salem to judge the witchcraft, he also from Boston, and he judge the witch trials with three other People. Miller demonstrated that it was Danforth’s Flaws of Stubbornness, Quick-tempered, and Pride that led him to be most responsible for the tragedy of the witch-hunt in Salem.
What is Danforth's goal in The Crucible?
A complicated character, it is Danforth's responsibility to run the trials and decide if the good people of Salem who are accused of witchcraft are really witches.
What is Danforth's motivation in Act 3?
Danforth believes the people who have been accused and sentenced might be innocent. A riot to overthrow the court could start.
How would you describe Judge Danforth?
In Arthur Miller's 1953 play The Crucible, Danforth is depicted as the leading judicial figure overseeing the Salem trials. William Stoughton is not a character in the play, and Miller portrays Danforth as an honest but domineering and selfish judge, under whose authority many are imprisoned and sentenced to hang.
What is Judge Danforth's attitude toward the trials?
How does his philosophy influence the trials? Danforth believes in the power of the court and wants to protect it at all costs and either believes that people are innocent or guilty. He sees things as black and white, so his philosophy is that people are either guilty or they're innocent.
How does Judge Danforth abuse his power?
Danforth: Judge, Jury, and Executioner Judge Danforth's position in the crucible is the Judge assigned to the proceedings of the Salem witch trials. Instead of treating this immense responsibility with the respect and restraint that is needed, Danforth abused his power by betraying the people of Salem and the Law.
How is Judge Danforth corrupt?
Judge Danforth was corrupt in "The Crucible" because he knew that the hysteria and cries of witchcraft from the teenage girls was all a farce. He knew that the girls were lying and accusing people based on their personal judgments, and yet, he let the trials continue.
Who does Judge Danforth accuse?
Danforth summons Abigail and three of the girls into the vestry room, where he questions Abigail. She denies Mary Warren's charge that she is lying and that she falsely accused Elizabeth Proctor.
How is Danforth a victim of his own logic?
Danforth is a victim of his own logic because Danforth prioritizes something that seems off , over the reality of possible innocence. Hale returned because he wanted to see if he can fix what he was part of which was the big problem. He changed because he seems more full of himself since he got back.
Does Danforth believe in witchcraft?
The first trait Deputy Judge Danforth has is that he believes in witchcraft and the girls from the start of the book until the end.
Why does Danforth refuse to believe Proctor?
Danforth is suspicious of Mary and Proctor because he thinks Proctor is threatening Mary into this confession. Proctor reminds Mary of the angel Raphael that says "Do that which is good, and not harm will come to thee." Proctor wants her to believe that she is doing the right thing by telling the truth.
Does Danforth care about his reputation?
Judge Danforth cares more about his own reputation than what is right. Often times people try to think of what is right instead of saving their own face, Judge Danforth is an exception to this stereotype. The Salem Witch Trials were a horrible time where many people lost their lives due to an unjust court system.
Why does Danforth refuse to stop the proceedings?
Why does Danforth refuse to postpone the hangings? Danforth refuses to postpone the hangings because it would admit some wrongdoing or doubt, a "floundering" on their part and it would also cast doubt on the executions and condemnations of the who have already been hanged.
What does Reverend Hale do in Act 3?
Hale denounces the proceedings and quits the court.
What motivates Francis nurse to stand up to judge?
What motivates Francis Nurse to stand up to the judge? Do you think his action is courageous or foolish? He wants to stand up for his wife and all those who are accused. I think this is courageous and shows he is selfless because he knows what the consequences may be and continues to stand up for what is right.
What is Reverend Hale's motivation?
Hale devotes himself to his faith and his work. His good intentions and sincere desire to help the afflicted motivate him. Unfortunately, Hale is also vulnerable. His zeal for discovering witchcraft allows others, particularly Abigail, to manipulate him.
What is Mercy Lewis motivation?
Motivation: FEAR-she wants to reveal the truth but breaks under pressure from Abigail and the other girls. Mercy Lewis. Servant to the Putnams and friend to Abigail.
What happened to Judge Danforth in real life?
In real life, Judge Danforth was an affluent farmer and held several public offices within the Puritan government. He was born in England but emigr...
Who was Judge Danforth in ''The Crucible''?
Judge Thomas Danforth was a successful, intelligent, and highly respected Puritan judge in the 1600s - it was his job to oversee the persecution of...
How is Judge Danforth corrupt in ''The Crucible''?
Judge Danforth was corrupt in "The Crucible" because he knew that the hysteria and cries of witchcraft from the teenage girls was all a farce. He k...
Who is Judge Danforth?
Judge Danforth is the deputy governor of Massachusetts and he presides over the witch trials in Salem alongside Judge Hathorne. The leading figure among the magistrates, Danforth is a key character in the story.
Why does Danforth hang innocent people?
He hangs innocent people to avoid sullying his own reputation. Bradford, Wade.
What does Judge Danforth believe?
There is no questioning that Danforth believes he is doing the work of God and that those on trial shall not be treated unjustly in his courtroom. However, his misguided belief that the accusers speak the undeniable truth in their charges of witchery shows his vulnerability. Character traits of Judge Danforth:
What does Judge Danforth assume when he shouts out a name?
If the young women so much as shout out a name, Danforth assumes the name belongs to a witch. His gullibility is exceeded only by his self-righteousness. If a character, such as Giles Corey or Francis Nurse, attempts to defend his wife, Judge Danforth contends that the advocate is trying to overthrow the court.
What is Danforth's character?
Elderly and semi-fragile though this is hidden behind his gruff exterior. Danforth rules the courtroom like a dictator. He is an icy character who firmly believes that Abigail Williams and the other girls are incapable of lying. If the young women so much as shout out a name, Danforth assumes the name belongs to a witch.
Who asks Abigail to leave the stage?
In the stage directions, Miller states that Danforth asks, "You deny every scrap and tittle of this?" In response, Abigail hisses, "If I must answer that, I will leave and I will not come back again."
Who is the judge in the Crucible?
He wrote and directed seven productions for Yorba Linda Civic Light Opera's youth theater. Judge Danforth is one of the key characters in Arthur Miller's play "The Crucible.".
What is the closing act of Saving Face instead of Lives?
Saving Face Instead of Lives. In the closing act of the play, Judge Danforth continues to love himself over justice. On the morning John Proctor and Goody Nurse, two excellent citizens, are set to be executed, Judge Danforth is petitioned by many to postpone the sentences or to pardon them all together.
What does Judge Danforth ask Elizabeth?
Judge Danforth is asking Elizabeth to incriminate her husband in a court of law. She's not allowed to know he had already confessed, so of course she refuses to blame him. Danforth takes this as absolute proof that John was lying about Abigail in the first place.
What is Judge Danforth's last word?
He remains unmoved by quantities of evidence and impassioned pleas, so it's not surprising that Judge Danforth's last words in this play are directions to ''Hang them high over the town! Who weeps for these, weeps for corruption!'' With that, Judge Danforth and his blind, selfish ego ''sweeps out past them'' he has condemned to death.
What does Judge Danforth do when he is presented with evidence contrary to his judgements?
When he is presented with evidence contrary to his judgements, he tries to silence, bribe, and manipulate those who challenge him, as well as make insinuations, like call Elizabeth's husband a lecher, which is someone who commits a sin of a sexual nature, like adultery. In the end, even when others are moved to question the many death sentences that have been issued, Judge Danforth stands resolute and unwilling to bend. ''Hang them high over the town!'' he cries out, closing the play completely unrepentant of the blood on his hands.
What does Judge Danforth say to Reverend Hale?
Judge Danforth responds indignantly to their challenges, asking ''Do you know who I am? '' as if his very presence should solve all their problems. Later, he bristles against a question from Reverend Hale by saying, ''you surely do not doubt my justice.'' Judge Danforth apparently thinks himself above questioning.
What is Judge Danforth's response to those who challenge the court's proceedings?
Judge Danforth's initial response to those who challenge the court's proceedings is to silence them. When Giles Corey speaks up in court, Judge Danforth commands him to sit back down. When that doesn't work, he calls for the marshal to remove Corey.
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The Importance Of Pride In The Crucible
In The Crucible written by Arthur Miller in 1953, Miller illustrates the importance of seeing past pride and listening to other people. The Crucible is about the small town of Salem Massachusetts. The story takes place during the Salem witch trials.
Public Hysteria In Arthur Miller's The Crucible
Public hysteria is a psychological phenomenon that affects a group of people, resulting in fear or irrational behavior. In Arthur Miller’s play, The Crucible, many innocents were wrongfully accused, causing many to be hanged without trial.
The Role Of Judge Danforth In The Crucible
In our society, many people rely on the power of law and justice in order to protect themselves. Some powerful men abuse and misuse their power which brings many unfairnesses and tragedies. In Arthur Miller’s The Crucible, Judge Danforth is a deputy governor of the state, and he is also the judge for the witchcraft trail.
How Does Abigail Williams Show Dishonesty In The Crucible
Abigail Williams: The Conniving Woman of the Crucible The Salem Witch Trials began in Salem Massachusetts in 1629. Many people were accused of being a witch and many lives were lost. In Author Miller’s The Crucible, Abigail Williams is the most to blame for the events of the Salem Witch Trials. Abigail is one of the main characters in the play.
Comparing The Crucible And Sinners In The Hands Of An Angry God
Finding Justification for Injustice What politician hasn’t used religion as an unwavering piece of justification in an argument? All throughout history, politicians have used religion countless times to justify behavior or simply to avoid unflattering questions. Authors and characters are guilty of this as well.
Danforth In The Crucible
Deputy Governor, Danforth is ignorant to the fact that he believes he is the voice of God. He believes the people of Salem should not fear the court because the court is guided by God, so therefore there will be no corruption or unfair ruling. This thoughts is a lie and shows how much of an ego Danforth has.
What Is Abigail's Motivation In The Crucible
In the first act of the play the Crucible, by Arthur Millar, a few girls are caught dancing in the forest and accused of witchcraft. To save themselves and their reputations the girls, along with other citizens in the town of Salem, start to point their fingers and put the blame on other people. Abigail’s, Reverend Parris’, and Mrs.
What is the Crucible about?
The Crucible is a play written by Arthur Miller in which multiple people were being convicted of witchcraft without evidence or proof. The Crucible, fear is operating in the witchcraft accusations and the tension between the Salem residents. Abigail’s motivation in the witchcraft testimonies. Today, the well documented horrors of the Salem Witch Trials provide a detailed history for descendants of the many victims,judges,juries,witnesses,and accusers. Some 24 people had died for their supposed involvement during the Salem Witch Trials.
What are the motives of Abigail Williams?
We first see hints of her motives when Abigail tells John Proctor, a married man under whom she had worked that, “I am waiting’ for you every night” (1099). While Abigail worked under John and Elizabeth Proctor, she had developed feelings for John. Elizabeth removes her which angers Abigail deeply.
How did paranoia affect the Salem Witch Trials?
How Paranoia and blame Affected the Salem Witch Trials and the McCarthy hearings In the 1690’s, a wave of fear for the devil washed over Salem, Massachusetts, resulting in the accusations of 200 supposed witches and the execution of 20. Almost 200 years later, after World War II, communists were highly feared. The strong urge to stay away from communists led to the McCarthy hearings where many innocent people were accused and tried for being communists. The Salem trials and the McCarthy hearings have many ties, the two closest being how paranoia highly affected the actions of individuals related to the cases and that the only way to save one’s self was to blame others. During the strange events known as the Salem witch trials, paranoia was
Why does Hale want Proctor to confess?
Hale wants Proctor to confess so he can be with pregnant wife. Proctor ends up confessing to the judges to save Rebecca. In order for the confession to be complete Danforth tells Proctor to sign a paper stating that he is confessing about doing witchery.
What is Betty's power in Act I?
Betty Parris’s great power throughout Act I can be seen by her ability to single handedly create chaos and hysteria within the town for her own personal gain. Her power can first be viewed after Susanna Walcott explains the possibility of a supernatural cause to Betty’s illness, leading Abigail to advise her Uncle about “the rumor of witchcraft [that] is all about: [She] thinks [he 'd] best go down and deny it [himself]. The parlor’s packed with people,sir” (10). This is the first hint that others in the town believe in the presence and of the beginnings of the hysteria that follows. Betty started this rumor in the town by pretending to act sick so that she would not get punished for dancing in the woods.
Why did the judges of the trials use spectral evidence?
Many of those accused as witches died not just because of the accusers but, because of the unfairness of the trials.The judges of the trials used spectral evidence, ignoring the accused, and the judges were unfair because they believed in witches and want those who were witches dead. In the trials judges used spectral evidence. Spectral evidence is when the accused claim that they saw the spirit of the person on trial do something that they should not have done. In the book it states that “A woman named Goodie Bibber testified that the specter of Rebecca
How did the Witch Trials affect the church?
During The Crucible, the Witch Trials caused many court hearings. A good deal of the court hearings consisted of people over exaggerating outbursts of demons inside of them just to get somebody convicted. The Witch Trails also affected the church in many ways. Reverend Parris’ already had a wicked reputation as their minister, and the trials made it even worse. People wanted him out of the church.
