The Crucible Study Guide Act 2

In what ways is Miller's use of dialogue effective in the first two pages of this scene to show the rift between the couple?

"It is a fault, it is a fault, Elizabeth-you're the mistress here, not Mary Warren" (193). "You doubt me yet?" (193).

In what ways does Hale question John Proctor's religious strength?

-Hale questioned John Proctor's attendance to church. -Hale questioned John Proctor's lack of respect for Reverand Parris. -Hale questioned Proctors refusal of getting his 3rd son baptized.

Explain the ironic ultimatum the head of the court has given to those who have been arrested.

Confess or die, which by doing so they were punished for telling the truth or they were rewarded for lying.

What does Hale's motivation for visiting the Proctors tell the audience about his personality?

He wants to examine all the sides of an issue to get a clearer picture. This shows the audience the he wants everyone to be charged the "correct" way.

What does Proctor's hesitation to travel to Salem indicate about his inner conflict?

It shows that he is afraid of potentially hurting Abigail.

What does the reader learn about the Proctors' marriage through the discrepancy between what John Proctor does before he sees his wife and when he talks to her?

John comes into the house, tastes the stew and adds seasoning. At dinner he compliments her seasoning of the meal. This lie shows how he does find fault with Elizabeth, but also that he will not be open and honest with her. There is an obvious barrier between the two that is demonstrated in the first few pages of this act.

What present does Mary Warren give Elizabeth? What does her making it and giving it to Elizabeth foreshadow?

Mary Warren gives Elizabeth a Poppet doll (voodoo doll). It foreshadows as evidence in court.

Whom does Elizabeth call "a mouse no more"? What does she mean by this metaphor?

Mary Warren is compared to a mouse because she doesn't defend herself; now that she is working for the court Mary does what she pleases.

What duty has Mary Warren been performing in Salem?

She is a witness in court.

What does Elizabeth Proctor report to her husband about the trials in salem? What does she urge her husband to do?

She reported who her name has been mentioned which she believe Abigail mentioned it. She also reports on how many innocent people are in jail. She urges her husband to tell the community the truth.

Explain the metaphor: "The magistrate sits in your heart that judges you."

This was said By Elizabeth Proctor, she was saying that John Proctor's conscience is what is judging him not the judges in court.