Crucible

Crucible

A crucible, as defined by the Merriam-Webester Concise Electronic Dictionary, is "the

state or fact of being tested (as by suffering)", which attests to what Elizabeth Proctor is

going through exactly. Elizabeth has quite a crucible to struggle through. The infidelity of

her husband is a major element in her being. Her struggle includes staying true to both her

husband and her God. Another is the persecution by Abigail Warren, a former employee

and assistant. Elizabeth also has to suffer through the decision to reveal the unfaithfulness

of John or to remain strong in her love of him. All of this is too much for Elizabeth and the

burden is very heavy. Elizabeth's husband, John, is a religious man. He believes in God,

but not the minister who preaches His word. John's actions, though, are not so religious

and devoid of sin. Abby, a young seductress, was able to gain his attention while Elizabeth

was bedridden. A fiery and passionate affair scared his relationship with his wife. Elizabeth

struggles with his infidelity. When Reverend Hale questions the couple on the

commandments, it is evident that there is still a void between her and John. All

commandments could be recited except for adultery. In the puritan culture, adultery is a

grievous sin, one punishable by death. She has to live through each day knowing that John

was unfaithful, and that he did not fulfill the commitment of marriage. She feels hurt and

betrayed, but what Abby tries next is the most underhanded trick possible. Abigail was

placed in power due to her "ability" to spot the devil in people. She could see those who

trafficked with the devil and who was in his book. This was an opportunity to settle the

score for her. Goody Proctor had discharged Abby from her home, and now was Abby's

chance to get back at Elizabeth.. All she needed was an opportunity. Following the idea of

spirits leaving the body of a host, she stabbed herself with a needle, and blamed it on

Elizabeth's familiar spirit. Elizabeth had to fight the accusations and the suspicions about

her and her bad intentions. She was backed in a corner and there was nowhere to go. If

she confessed to being a witch, she would spend her days in jail, and her name would be

forever tarnished. If she did not confess at all, she would be hanged for being a witch. It

was trying not only on her, but on her faith. Another factor, though, would impact her

emotional problems. In an attempt to prove that Abby was just condemning people out of

vengeance, John Proctor asked the court to allow Elizabeth to reveal the real reason that

Abby was discharged from their home. His