4 Concepts of Compare/Contrast

Judgement/Perception-Throughout the book, the characters in the story judge each other based on other people's thoughts and accusations. A such example would be in the conversation between John Proctor and his wife, Elizabeth. They discussed in the second act how people were being judged if they were involved with witches and how Proctor was being viewed by Elizabeth as a cheater. Thus he says, "I cannot speak but I am doubted, every moment judged for lies, as though I come into court when I come into this house" (Miller 54-55). This passage demonstrates how people judge you affects how you act and behave in society.

Deception- Joseph McCarthy had people believe that he had written proof of names that were involved in events pertaining to Communism. By using examples of people who were involved in communism inside of the government, he decieved people that Communism was taking over. It wasn't until later that people realized the foolishness behind McCarthy's words. Their fear led their thoughts and gave McCarthy a weakness that he could delve into. This proves that fear or emotion can cause deception.

Insanity- Abigail is the ringleader of the insanity in the town. During Proctor's trial, Abigail drove Mary Warren (Proctor's servant) so hysterical that she agreed to side with her and turn away from Proctor. Abigail's friends Mercy Lewis and Betty Parris followed whatever she did to cause a commotion at the trial, because they knew that they could overpower Mary. The girls would repeat everything that Mary Warren said. Finally, Mary says, "I go your way no more" and thus changes sides (Miller 118-119). This passage shows that insanity and hysteria can lead you to choices that you may not have made if you were sane, or can harm you or others in the future.

Reputation- In Salem, everyone's reputation was on the line. Because of accusations, women such as Rebecca Nurse and Martha Giles were tried for witchcraft. Most people viewed Rebecca as one of the most mature and innocent people in the town. Thus the Reverend Hale says, "If Rebecca Nurse be tainted, then there's nothing left to stop the whole green world from burning" (Miller 71). This shows how reputation can easily be destroyed by others seeking revenge.