The Crucible

The act takes place in Proctor’s home, and throughout this scene it is obvious that John is powerful and is head of the household. When John arrives he is holding a gun, which in some ways could represent power and also foreshadow the violence that will soon take place. John walks over to the food that was left for him, however he is not quite pleased with how the food tastes and so he adds salt into the food. Towards the end of the scene John washes his face and hands slowly, which is his way of trying to cleanse himself of the sins that he has committed. At this time puritans had very strict rules, one that look down upon adultery and so committing this sin could also result in one's death. Most of the events that take place in this act happen slowly in order to help the reader better understand the mood and emotions that are being represented by the actors.

Elizabeth enters the room and asks him why he arrived at such a late hour. As she enters the room and serves him the audience could see that there is some tension between both John and Elizabeth. As they talked about the food John moves and makes an attempt to kiss Elizabeth however, according to the play she “received it, with a certain disappointment”. Throughout the act, anytime one of them came too close to one another, Elizabeth would appear uncomfortable and distant. As the scene continues, the audience could feel the awkwardness and tension between both of them. It becomes more apparent when they begin to talk about winter and when it will finally pass. John says “It’s winter in here yet. On Sunday let you come with me, and we’ll walk the farm together; I’ll never see such a load of flowers on earth.” Winter symbolizes the hard times that they have faced as a couple, and when summer comes with its ‘flowers’ the tough times will pass. The flowers blooming from the harsh winter symbolize a new beginnings, and happiness.

Proctor begins to notice that she is a upset over something, and asks her why. Although, Elizabeth did not want to “create friction” she still wants an answer as to why he arrived late and so begins to talk about how he came home at such a late hour with no clear explanation, and she questions him about where he has been and if he has been to Salem. Proctor is at first confused because he does not have any business in Salem, however he soon realizes why she is concerned by his late arrival. He begins to talk about Abigail and then tells her that he was at some point alone with her in room, which leads Elizabeth to lose faith in her husband. Proctor becomes angry because he feels as if she is always judging him and his house is beginning to feel like a courtroom. However, his wife responds by saying his heart has become the courtroom, meaning he has fallen for two women and he hasn't been able to choose one.

Their servant Mary Warren arrives home after leaving the house despite her master not giving her permission