The Crucible - Act 2 Summary - Schooling Online

Summary

In the Proctor household during the Salem witch trials, John Proctor grapples with his past affair with Abigail Williams while his wife, Elizabeth, faces accusations of witchcraft. Tensions rise as they learn of the increasing arrests and Abigail's manipulations to remove Elizabeth from the picture. When Reverend Hale questions the Proctors' faith, John's struggle to recall the Ten Commandments intensifies the scrutiny. The situation escalates with the discovery of a needle in a doll linked to Elizabeth, leading to her arrest. As John vows to expose the truth, fear grips their servant, Mary Warren, leaving the community's fate hanging in the balance.

Takeaways

• 👩‍❤️‍👨 John Proctor is torn between his loyalty to his wife, Elizabeth, and his past affair with Abigail Williams.
• ⚖️ The witchcraft hysteria in Salem leads to the arrest of numerous townspeople, causing fear and chaos.
• 😟 Elizabeth fears that Abigail is accusing her to remove her from John's life and pursue him for herself.
• 📜 Mary, the Proctors' servant, reveals that the number of arrested individuals has risen to 39, intensifying the crisis.
• 🧵 A doll with a needle is introduced as evidence against Elizabeth, symbolizing the absurdity of the witchcraft accusations.
• 🤔 Reverend Hale questions John about his Christianity, emphasizing the scrutiny of moral integrity during the trials.
• 💔 John struggles with the decision to expose Abigail's lies, weighing the consequences for his reputation and family.
• 👥 The arrival of Giles Corey and Francis Nurse highlights the community's collective distress as respected individuals are accused.
• 📖 John's failure to remember the Commandment against adultery raises suspicions about his character and intentions.
• 🎭 The scene concludes with Mary's emotional turmoil as she grapples with the dangerous implications of standing up against the court.

Q & A

What news does Elizabeth Proctor share with John about the witchcraft investigations?

Elizabeth informs John that four judges have been sent from Boston to investigate witchcraft in Salem, and that 14 people are already imprisoned.

Why does Elizabeth urge John to speak out against Abigail?

Elizabeth believes John should tell everyone that Abigail and the other girls are lying, as Abigail has accused her to remove her from the picture and pursue John.

How does John Proctor feel about his past relationship with Abigail?

John is conflicted; he acknowledges his affair with Abigail but feels resentment for having to cater to Elizabeth's feelings since Abigail left.

What distressing news does Mary, the Proctors' servant, bring from court?

Mary reports that the number of arrested individuals has increased to 39 and that Abigail attempted to accuse her in court.

What does John Proctor decide to do after learning about Abigail's accusations?

John decides to go to Salem to expose Abigail's lies, even if it means revealing his affair, to protect Elizabeth.

What challenge does Reverend Hale pose to John regarding his faith?

Reverend Hale questions John about the baptism of his youngest son, expressing concern over John's lack of respect for Reverend Parris.

What mistake does John make when reciting the Ten Commandments?

John forgets the Commandment against adultery, which is awkwardly pointed out by Elizabeth.

What charges are brought against Elizabeth Proctor?

Elizabeth is accused of witchcraft after a needle is found in a doll made by Mary, which Abigail claims was used to harm her.

How does John react to the arrest warrant for Elizabeth?

John angrily tears up the warrant and confronts Cheever, insisting the charges against Elizabeth are ridiculous.

What is Mary's response when John asks her to accompany him to court?

Mary refuses to go to court, expressing fear about the repercussions of Abigail threatening to expose their affair.