The Crucible Act IV Quiz

Questions and Answers

What is the setting of 'The Crucible' Act IV?

the Salem jail, in the autumn after the trials.

What can the audience infer from the brief scene involving Tituba, Sarah Good, and Herrick that opens 'The Crucible,' Act IV?

Herrick is drinking in order to dull his anguish at the injustices being done.

In Act IV of 'The Crucible,' why does Rev. Parris hope that Rebecca Nurse and John Proctor will confess?

Their confessions will confirm the justice of all the trials and of the executions.

What lesson has Elizabeth Proctor learned during her three months' imprisonment in Act IV?

One should not judge human frailty (weakness) too harshly. Signup and view all the answers

What is ironic about calling the confessions of witchcraft 'coming to God' in Act IV?

The confessions are lies and therefore sins against God. Signup and view all the answers

What idea about the law is conveyed by Danforth's determination to proceed with executions immediately in Act IV?

Injustice may be committed in the name of the law. Signup and view all the answers

Who does John Proctor's refusal to condemn others to save himself contrast with in Act IV?

Reverend Parris. Signup and view all the answers

When does the climax in Act IV of 'The Crucible' occur?

When John Proctor refuses to sign the confession. Signup and view all the answers

What important message about life is conveyed by Proctor's decision to tear up the confession in Act IV?

Personal honor determines the worth of one's self. Signup and view all the answers

How does Proctor's determination to preserve his good name in Act IV relate to the McCarthy era of the 1950s?

Reputations were ruined by irresponsible accusations. Signup and view all the answers

What message does Judge Danforth's behavior in Act IV convey?

Those in power tend to act in the interest of preserving power. Signup and view all the answers

What does Reverend Parris urge Elizabeth to do as Proctor is taken off to execution?

Try once more to persuade him to confess. Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect of life in Puritan Salem depicted in 'The Crucible,' Act IV, is applicable today?

Fear and suspicion can lead to miscarriages of justice. Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean if someone is 'adamant'?

Stubborn. Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean if someone is 'conciliatory'?

Peacemaker. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Setting

Act IV of "The Crucible" takes place in a Salem jail during autumn after the witch trials.

Character Insights

Herrick, the jailer, is seen drinking to cope with the anguish caused by the injustices occurring around him.
John Proctor's refusal to confess contrasts sharply with Reverend Parris's self-serving behavior during the trials.

Themes of Justice and Injustice

Rev. Parris wishes for John Proctor and Rebecca Nurse to confess, believing their admissions will validate the trials and executions.
The determination of Judge Danforth to proceed with executions illustrates that injustices can occur under the guise of lawful authority.

Personal Reflection and Morality

Elizabeth Proctor learns not to judge human weakness harshly after her imprisonment.
Proctor's decision to tear up his confession signifies the importance of personal honor and self-worth over societal approval.

Irony and Hypocrisy

Confessions of witchcraft are ironically labeled as "coming to God," despite being falsehoods that contradict true faith.
Proctor’s insistence on maintaining his good name reflects broader themes of reputation and the consequences of baseless accusations, pertinent to the McCarthy era.

Climax and Resolution

The climax occurs when John Proctor ultimately refuses to sign a false confession, standing firm in his principles.
The act of tearing up the confession serves as a powerful statement about integrity and personal conviction.

Relevance to Contemporary Issues

The themes of fear and suspicion leading to wrongful justice in Puritan Salem resonate with modern societal issues.

Vocabulary

"Adamant" refers to someone who is very stubborn in their beliefs or decisions.
"Conciliatory" describes an individual who seeks to promote peace and resolve conflicts.

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Description

Test your understanding of Act IV of 'The Crucible' by Arthur Miller. This quiz explores the themes of justice, morality, and personal honor as characters grapple with the consequences of their actions in a time of hysteria. Analyze the complex relationships and decisions that shape the narrative in this powerful act.