Question

Read the excerpt below and answer the question.

I will fall like an ocean on that court!

Which character said these words and why?

John Proctor to Reverend Hale after reciting the Ten Commandments
Abigail to Reverend Hale about her testimony in court
John Proctor to Elizabeth as she was getting arrested
Thomas Putnam to Parris regarding their dispute about land

Answer 1

Now think about the consequences of the behavior of the characters in the play, whether they are motivated by love, jealousy, grudge, resentment, or a need to protect themselves. “The Crucible” involves sets of characters that interact with each other, sometimes with love, sometimes out of hatred, and so often acting on a grudge or a desire for revenge. Their actions cause harm, but are really meant to protect themselves, their reputations, their political lives, safety, distance from sin, and freedom from hell and damnation. In “The Crucible,” Abigail finds herself as the focus of the community. What she does next leads to serious consequences. Does she plot to ruin the lives of John and Elizabeth Proctor forever because of her jealousy over Elizabeth and her anger about John’s choice to remain with his wife over her? Or are there other reasons? John distains Reverend Parris for his harsh enforcement of church rules and his loud sermons; Proctor also dislikes Putnum for his wealth and abusive power. How does John act on his anger and contempt for Reverend Parris? Parris dislikes Proctor for not attending church or obeying his commands. He is a disruption of Parris’ power and control in the community. Tom Putnam’s brother was also, in his view, cheated out of a role in the Salem Ministry. These resentments eventually cause grave effects later in “The Crucible” with consequences that are irreversible. How do these characters handle these accusations? About the only one who handles the investigation and trial decency and maturity is Reverend Hale. He didn’t have grudges or resentments, and he exercised forgiveness when he realized they were being handles wrongly and for the wrong reasons.