Fear is a powerful emotion that can drive people to make irrational decisions and take extreme actions. In Arthur Miller’s play, “The Crucible,” fear plays a central role in the lives of the characters and affects their behavior and beliefs. The play is set in Salem, Massachusetts, during the infamous witch trials of the late 17th century, where fear of witchcraft and the devil ran rampant.
One of the most significant quotes about fear in “The Crucible” comes from John Proctor, the play’s protagonist. As a farmer and husband, Proctor is a proud and independent man who is not easily swayed by the opinions of others. However, when his wife is accused of witchcraft, Proctor’s world is turned upside down. In a moment of vulnerability, he admits, “I have known her, sir. I have known her.” This quote shows that fear can make even the strongest individuals doubt their own judgment and question the truth.
Another memorable quote about fear comes from Reverend Hale, an expert in identifying witchcraft. Initially, Hale is confident in his abilities and believes that he can distinguish between the innocent and the guilty. However, as the trials progress and innocent people are condemned, Hale begins to question his own judgments. In a moment of self-doubt, he exclaims, “I dare not take a life without there be proof so immaculate no slightest qualm of conscience may doubt it.” This quote highlights the destructive power of fear and its ability to cloud one’s judgment and lead to tragic consequences.
The theme of fear in “The Crucible” is further exemplified by the quote, “We are what we always were in Salem, but now the little crazy children are jangling the keys of the kingdom, and common vengeance writes the law!” This quote, spoken by the character Francis Nurse, reflects the hysteria and paranoia that swept through Salem during the witch trials. It shows how fear can manipulate people into turning against one another and abandoning their principles and morals.
In conclusion, “The Crucible” provides powerful insights into the destructive effects of fear on individuals and society as a whole. The quotes about fear in the play demonstrate how this emotion can cloud judgment, create doubt, and lead to chaos and tragedy. Miller’s portrayal of the witch trials serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us of the importance of remaining steadfast in the face of fear and upholding justice and truth.
Powerful Quotes from The Crucible about Fear
- “I have seen too many frightful proofs in court–the Devil is alive in Salem, and we dare not quail to follow wherever the accusing finger points!” – Reverend Hale
- “Fear nothing. I will find the truth even if I have to burn down all of puritan Massachusetts!” – John Proctor
- “We are what we always were in Salem, but now the little crazy children are jangling the keys of the kingdom, and common vengeance writes the law!” – John Proctor
- “Suspicion kissed you when I did; I never knew how I should say my love.” – Abigail Williams
- “The devil is precise; the marks of his presence are definite as stone.” – Reverend Hale
- “We are what we always were in Salem, but now the little crazy children are jangling the keys of the kingdom, and common vengeance writes the law!” – John Proctor
- “You misunderstand, sir, I cannot pardon these when twelve are already hanged for the same crime. It is not just.” – Judge Danforth
- “Oh, Elizabeth, your justice would freeze beer!” – John Proctor
- “I denounce these proceedings! I quit this court!” – Reverend Hale
- “I cannot sleep for dreamin’; I cannot dream but I wake and walk about the house as though I’d find you comin’ through some door.” – John Proctor
Quotes that Highlight the Overwhelming Presence of Fear
Fear is a pervasive element in The Crucible that consumes the characters and drives their actions. These quotes capture the overwhelming presence of fear and its impact on the story:
“We cannot blink it away. There is a prodigious fear of being slaughtered by Indians, and this has troubled them.” – Reverend Parris
“I have seen too many frightful proofs in court–the Devil is alive in Salem, and we dare not quail to follow wherever the accusing finger points!” – Reverend Hale
“I am not some preaching farmer with a book under my arm; I am a graduate of Harvard College.” – Reverend Parris
“Surely you do not doubt my justice?” – Deputy Governor Danforth
“They’ve come to overthrow the court, sir!” – Mary Warren
“You must understand, sir, that a person is either with this court or he must be counted against it, there be no road between.” – Judge Hathorne
“I will not give my name! Because I cannot have another in my life! Because I lie and sign myself to lies!” – John Proctor
“I think she’ll wake in time. Pray calm yourselves. I have eleven children, and I am twenty-six times a grandma, and I have seen them all through their silly seasons, and when it come on them they will run the Devil bowlegged keeping up with their mischief.” – Rebecca Nurse
These quotes exemplify the all-encompassing fear that plagues the characters of The Crucible and demonstrates the power it holds over their lives and their society.
Quotes that Explore the Destructive Effects of Fear
Fear is a potent and destructive force that can consume and control individuals, leading to dire consequences. In Arthur Miller’s play, “The Crucible,” various characters experience the detrimental effects of fear. These quotes highlight the destructive nature of fear and its impact on both individuals and society as a whole.
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“I have seen too many frightful proofs in court–the Devil is alive in Salem, and we dare not quail to follow wherever the accusing finger points!” – Reverend Parris |
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This quote shows how fear of the supernatural, in this case, the Devil, drives Reverend Parris to support and endorse the witch trials. His fear blinds him to reason and leads him to act irrationally, contributing to the chaos and destruction in Salem. |
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“I am not empowered to trade your life for a lie.” – Judge Danforth |
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Judge Danforth’s fear of being deceived or making a mistake leads him to prioritize the preservation of his own reputation and authority over the lives of the accused. His refusal to acknowledge the truth and his insistence on proceeding with the trials despite mounting evidence of their injustice reflects the dangerous consequences of fear. |
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“I cannot sleep for dreaming; I cannot dream but I wake and walk about the house as though I’d find you comin’ through some door.” – John Proctor |
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John Proctor’s fear of losing his wife, Elizabeth, and the guilt he carries for his affair with Abigail Williams haunts him relentlessly. This quote showcases the destructive effects of fear on an individual’s mental state and highlights the inner turmoil it can create. |
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“We shall, this time, say only what we wish to say.” – Deputy Governor Danforth |
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Deputy Governor Danforth’s fear of dissent and the potential destabilization of the court’s power drives him to suppress the truth. This quote demonstrates how fear can lead to the manipulation and control of information, causing further harm and perpetuating injustice. |
These quotes serve as a reminder of the destructive effects of fear and the need for individuals to confront and overcome it in order to prevent it from overpowering reason and morality.
Quotes that Expose the Manipulative Use of Fear
Throughout The Crucible, Arthur Miller presents various quotes that highlight how fear is used as a manipulative tool by individuals in positions of power:
1. “I saw Bridget Bishop with the Devil! I saw Goody Osburn with the Devil! I saw Sarah Good with the Devil!” – These words, spoken by Abigail Williams, demonstrate how fear is weaponized to manipulate others’ perceptions. Abigail uses the fear of witchcraft to accuse innocent people, fabricating evidence and creating a sense of panic within the community.
2. “We cannot leap to witchcraft. They will howl me out of Salem for such corruption in my house.” – Reverend Parris, who is also motivated by fear, fears that his reputation will be tarnished if people find out about his daughter’s involvement in witchcraft. This quote highlights how individuals can manipulate fear to protect their own self-interests.
3. “You will confess yourself or you will hang!” – Deputy Governor Danforth, a prominent figure in the Salem witch trials, uses fear to force individuals to confess to a crime they may not have committed. By threatening death as the consequence, Danforth manipulates fear to exert control over the accused and maintain his authority.
4. “Do that which is good, and no harm shall come to thee.” – This quote, uttered by Judge Hathorne, emphasizes how fear is used as a means of control. By insinuating that punishment can be avoided if individuals conform to societal expectations, Hathorne manipulates fear to maintain order and suppress opposition.
5. “You must understand, sir, that a person is either with this court or he must be counted against it, there be no road between.” – Judge Danforth uses fear as a tool to divide the community and stifle any kind of dissent or questioning of the court’s authority. This quote exposes how fear is used to create a binary choice, leaving no room for independent thought or differing opinions.
In conclusion, these quotes from The Crucible reveal the manipulative use of fear by individuals in positions of power. They show how fear is manipulated to control and dominate others, highlighting the destructive impact fear can have on a community.
Quotes that Illustrate the Consequences of Succumbing to Fear
In Arthur Miller’s play, The Crucible, the characters are constantly tested by fear and its consequences. These quotes highlight the detrimental effects of giving in to fear:
| Quote | Character | Consequence |
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| “I have seen too many frightful proofs in court…The Devil is alive in Salem, and we dare not quail to follow wherever the accusing finger points!” | Parris | Parris’ fear of the Devil and desire to maintain his reputation as a spiritual leader drive him to support the witch trials, causing hysteria and the execution of innocent individuals. |
| “Excellency, there are orphans wandering from house to house; abandoned cattle bellow on the highroads, the stink of rotting crops hangs everywhere, and no man knows when the harlots’ cry will end his life.” | Hale | Hale’s fear of the Devil’s influence over Salem leads him to support the witch trials, causing devastation and chaos throughout the town. |
| “I do think I see some shred of goodness in John Proctor. Not enough to weave a banner with, but white enough to keep it from such dogs.” | Elizabeth | Elizabeth’s fear of losing her husband causes her to withhold information that could have saved innocent lives. Her actions ultimately lead to John’s arrest and tragic fate. |
| “I have had enough contention since I came; I want no more.” | John | John’s fear of the escalating conflict and his desire to protect his reputation initially prevent him from speaking out against the witch trials. However, by succumbing to fear, he ultimately loses his integrity and the chance to save innocent lives. |
These quotes demonstrate the disastrous consequences that can arise from allowing fear to dictate one’s actions and decisions. The characters’ obsession with preserving their own safety and reputation leads to the destruction of lives and the integrity of the community.
Quotes that Shed Light on the Courage to Overcome Fear
Throughout Arthur Miller’s play The Crucible, several characters demonstrate bravery in the face of fear. These quotes highlight their courage and determination to overcome the daunting obstacles presented to them.
“I have seen too many frightful proofs in court–the Devil is alive in Salem, and we dare not quail to follow wherever the accusing finger points!” – Reverend Hale
In this quote, Reverend Hale emphasizes the importance of not succumbing to fear when dealing with the accusations of witchcraft. He encourages others to stay strong and to face the challenges head-on, no matter how terrifying the circumstances may seem.
“There’s a misty plot afoot so subtle we should be criminal to cling to old respects and ancient friendships.” – Reverend Hale
Reverend Hale acknowledges that it is necessary to question the established order and alliances when something sinister is happening. He urges people to let go of their fear of change and the unknown in order to uncover the truth and protect their community.
“We burn a hot fire here; it melts down all concealment.” – Deputy Governor Danforth
Deputy Governor Danforth asserts that the intense scrutiny and investigation in the court will expose any hidden secrets or dishonesty. This quote reminds us that the truth will eventually be revealed, and those who hide behind deception will be held accountable.
“You must understand, sir, that a person is either with this court or he must be counted against it, there be no road between.” – Judge Hathorne
Judge Hathorne emphasizes the black-and-white thinking prevalent in the court, where people are pressured to either conform with the accusations and fuel fear or be labeled an enemy. This quote highlights the courage needed to stand up against the unjust proceedings and refuse to participate in the mass hysteria.
“We are what we always were in Salem, but now the little crazy children are jangling the keys of the kingdom, and common vengeance writes the law!” – John Proctor
In this powerful quote, John Proctor criticizes the manipulation of fear and the resulting chaos within the community. He condemns the court’s reliance on vengeance and highlights the need for the courage to confront and resist those who use fear as a weapon.
These quotes serve as a reminder that it takes immense bravery to overcome fear. The characters in The Crucible demonstrate this courage as they face the consequences of standing up against the injustices and mass hysteria that engulf their community.
Quotes that Reflect the Paranoia and Hysteria Caused by Fear
“Fear doesn’t travel well; just as it can warp judgement, its absence can diminish memory’s truth. What terrifies the powerful is that their victims might have forgotten, might not remember, might not care.”
“The Devil is precise; the marks of his presence are definite as stone.”
“I speak my own sins; I cannot judge another. I have no tongue for it.”
“The promise that a stallion gives a mare I gave that girl!”
“I marvel how such a strong man may let such a sickly wife be-“
“Why it’s sure she did. Mr. Collins saw her goin’ over Ingersoll’s barn, and come down light as bird, he says!”
“I saw Goody Booth with the Devil!”
“Abigail, I have fought here three long years to bend these stiff-necked people to me, and now, just now when some good respect is rising for me in the parish, you compromise my very character.”
“Man, remember, until an hour before the Devil fell, God thought him beautiful in Heaven.”
“There be no blush about my name”
Quotes that Address the Theme of Fear as a Catalyst for Judgment
“I have been thinking I would confess to them, Elizabeth. What say you? If I give them that?” – John Proctor
“I am not good. I cannot give you good witness.” – Mary Warren
“You misunderstand, sir; I cannot pardon these when twelve are already hanged for the same crime. It is not just.” – Governor Danforth
“I never knew until tonight that the world is gone daft with this nonsense.” – Reverend Hale
“But you must understand, sir, that a person is either with this court or he must be counted against it, there is no road between.” – Deputy Governor Danforth
“Excellency, there are orphans wandering from house to house; abandoned cattle bellow on the highroads, the stink of rotting crops hangs everywhere, and no man knows when the harlots’ cry will end his life.” – Reverend Parris
“There is blood on my head! Can you not see the blood on my head?!” – Abigail Williams
“They will howl me out of Salem for such corruption in my house.” – Reverend Parris
“The Crucible, I have this morning signed away the soul of Rebecca Nurse, Your Honor. I’ll not conceal it, my hand shakes yet as with a wound!” – Reverend Hale