The Crucible “Stifled Hero“

5 Pages 1284 Words

Stifled Hero
Everyday we are faced with countless tests of mettle or courage whether we realize it or not. From the kindergartener who will not to eat sand, the teenage girl who demands to keep her virginity, or the lawyer who refuses to forge a legal document, their decision (and the consequences) will remain with them forever. Martyrs face the ultimate test of mettle and die for their beliefs, while others gain a sense of accomplishment, pride and self-respect. Those who do not pass the test of mettle, however, may stand to lose a part of themselves in the process. In Arthur Miller’s 1960s play, The Crucible, Mary Warren underwent one of the most significant tests of mettle when her employer, John Proctor, sent her to the court to confess that she was lying about discovering witchcraft in Salem. Her confession would prove that the witch trials are a fraud and would prove Goody Proctor’s innocence. Although her new role in society pleases her, she realizes that innocent people lost their lives because of her act and she wants to reconcile her sins.
By confessing to Judge Danforth, Mary Warren risks jeopardizing her reputation to save the lives of those people whom she condemned. She also has to stand up to her friends who will also be affected by her sudden fit of conscience. Her claim will especially affect Abigail whom Mary claims saw her stick a needle into the poppet that she made for Goody Proctor and faked evidence. Mary seems fearless and committed when Danforth threatens her about her lie: “I will tell you this- either you are lying now or you were lying in the courts, and in either case you have committed perjury and you will go to jail for it” (Miller 94).
Still struggling with her test of courage, Mary replies, “I cannot lie no more” (Miller 94). But Mary Warren does not endure her “crucible” once Abigail accuses her of witchcraft, she becomes fully aware of the fact that she could go to jail or die and h...