A Literary Analysis: The Crucible essay topics

Below are possible topics for an essay you will write on The Crucible. The essay must consist of at least five paragraphs (intro, conclusion, and at least three body paragraphs), although it may be longer if necessary. You must use as much specific detail from the play as possible, including one to two direct quotes. All of your other details must be paraphrased. After each direct quote use a parenthetical citation (Miller Act.Line). After each paraphrase of information from the play or class discussion use (Miller Act.Line) or (Smith). The play (and class discussion if you use it) must be in MLA format on the Works Cited page.

Two characters in a literary work who serve as contrasts to each other are called foils. With this term in mind, explain how either Abigail and Elizabeth or Danforth and Hale serve as foils for each other. What character traits do each have which makes them foils for the other? How are these characters different? Do they change as the play progresses?

How much is Abigail to blame for the events that took place? Is she a victim of her society in The Crucible? What events in her past and present influence her behavior? Can she excused or pardoned because outside forces “made” her the way she is? Why or why not?