Bewitched by McCarthyism: The Crucible as Social Commentary

What historical event does "The Crucible" by Arthur Miller parallel?

Does the play serve as a social commentary of a specific era?

Answer:

"The Crucible" by Arthur Miller parallels the Salem witch trials, serving as a social commentary on McCarthyism during the 1950s.

Arthur Miller's play "The Crucible" is an allegorical drama that delves into the history of the Salem witch trials, drawing direct parallels to the McCarthyism era. The play sheds light on the hysteria and fear that gripped both societies during those turbulent times.

In the 1950s, McCarthyism was prevalent in the United States, as Senator Joseph McCarthy led a campaign against communism that fueled paranoia and false accusations. Miller used the Salem witch trials as a backdrop to highlight the dangers of unfounded accusations and the consequences of mass hysteria.

Through "The Crucible," Miller conveyed a powerful message about the importance of evidence-based justice and the detrimental effects of fear-mongering. The play serves as a poignant social commentary on the dangers of allowing fear to override reason and justice.