The Crucible - Act 3 Summary - Schooling Online

Summary

In Act 3 of 'The Crucible,' tensions rise in the Salem courtroom as accusations and revelations collide. Giles Corey fiercely defends his wife, Martha, claiming Thomas Putnam is manipulating the trials for land. Mary Warren bravely admits her lies, but chaos ensues as Abigail Williams feigns witchcraft, manipulating the court's fear. John Proctor's attempts to expose Abigail's deceit lead to tragic consequences, including his own arrest. The act powerfully illustrates the destructive impact of hysteria, the struggle for truth, and the relentless grip of power on justice in a community consumed by fear.

Takeaways

• 😀 The courtroom drama intensifies during the Salem Witch Trials, highlighting the chaos and tension among the characters.
• 😀 Giles Corey interrupts the proceedings, passionately defending his wife, Martha, against unfounded accusations.
• 😀 Judge Hawthorne dismisses Giles's claims about Thomas Putnam's ulterior motives for accusing Martha, showcasing the court's reluctance to accept outside opinions.
• 😀 Mary Warren reveals that her previous accusations were false, expressing her desire for the truth to prevail.
• 😀 John Proctor attempts to reveal the truth about the characters' integrity by submitting signatures from 91 locals vouching for Elizabeth, Martha, and Rebecca.
• 😀 Danforth remains skeptical, demonstrating the court's unwillingness to trust the accused and their supporters.
• 😀 Giles accuses Thomas Putnam of manipulating accusations for personal gain, further complicating the courtroom dynamics.
• 😀 Abigail Williams utilizes her acting skills to manipulate the court, pretending to be attacked by Mary's spirit, which demonstrates her influence over others.
• 😀 John Proctor's revelation of his affair with Abigail is a pivotal moment that shifts the focus of the trial and highlights the personal stakes involved.
• 😀 The act ends with John Proctor's desperate declaration that 'God is dead,' culminating in his arrest and Reverend Hale's resignation, symbolizing the moral decay of the court.

Q & A

What event is taking place at the beginning of Act 3 in the Salem Witch Trials?

Act 3 begins in the courtroom of the Salem Witch Trials, where the prosecution is questioning Martha Corey, Giles's wife.

What accusation does Giles make against Thomas Putnam?

Giles accuses Thomas Putnam of charging Martha Corey to acquire her and Giles's land for himself.

How does Judge Hawthorne react to Giles's interruption?

Judge Hawthorne does not accept Giles's claims and orders him into an empty room for his disobedience.

What revelation does Mary make during the trial?

Mary admits that she has never seen spirits and that her accusations were merely pretend.

What claim does Elizabeth Proctor make regarding her pregnancy?

Elizabeth sends a claim stating that she is pregnant, which delays her trial for a year.

What evidence does John Proctor present in court?

John Proctor submits the signatures of 91 locals attesting to the good character of Elizabeth, Rebecca, and Martha.

How does Abigail Williams respond to John's accusations?

Abigail denies the accusations and pretends that Mary Warren is bewitching her, claiming to feel a cold wind.

What does John reveal about his relationship with Abigail?

John Proctor reveals his affair with Abigail Williams, exposing her hidden motivations.

What is the outcome of Mary Warren's testimony?

Despite John's defense, Danforth dismisses his testimony, and Mary is sentenced to be hanged.

How does John Proctor react to the proceedings at the end of Act 3?

Frustrated and out of options, John Proctor declares that 'God is dead' and is subsequently arrested.