The Crucible –
John Proctor: Daniel Day-Lewis
Abigail Williams: Winona Ryder
Judge Danforth: Paul Scofield
Elizabeth Proctor: Joan Allen
Reverend Parris: Bruce Davison
Directed by Nicholas Hytner. Screenplay by Arthur Miller, based on his play. Running time: 115 minutes. Rated PG-13 (for intense depiction of the Salem witch trials).
Question 1: This film, which is based on Arthur Miller’s play, examines several important themes in American religion. Pick one of the following themes and show how the movie illustrates it:
a) those who claim to speak for God are very often furthering their own ambitions or have the most to hide;
b) the evils of jealousy, greed, and ambition can be more powerfully destructive than any supernatural evils;
c) passive acceptance of injustice may be the greatest evil of all.
Question 2: Do you think John Proctor was essentially a good man? Explain your answer using details from the movie.
Question 3: Select one of the other characters in the film, besides John Proctor, who made a strong impression on you. Describe what you learned about the character and how your learned it.
Question 4: Miller meant this play to be an allegory of the 1950s Red Scare. Can you think of any contemporary issue that leads people to act irrationally. Are there any “modern” witchhunts going on?
Question 5: What was your overall reaction to this film. Be honest.
