In the play the Crucible, we are introduced to many characters in the first few paragraphs. Reverend Parris a minister of the town is introduced kneeling at his daughters bedside praying appearing to be distraught by his daughter being ill. So it appears that way. When it is suggested that his daughter's illness maybe coming from an "unnatural cause" ( pg 155 ), he instructs people to not speak of it as he is concerned of his own reputation. When one thinks of a religious person, the social identity is one of showing kindness, compassion, understanding, and trust. Reverend Parris' congregation dislike him as he appears to be very power hungry. This is a very different social identity than we are used to see in religious personnel.
The Salem witch trials was such a confusing time for the Purtians. The fear of witches and the practice of witchcraft, caused chaos and paranoia among the town. In this type of situation, the Reverend Parris could have helped bring the town together however, because of his selfish, greedy behaviors, pulls the town apart even more.
At the end of the play, Reverend Parris appears to be upset over the many murders that have taken place. The truth is he is really upset because his money has been stolen. Just as in the first scene, he appears to be emotional because he cares for the people her serves but again that is not the case.
This leads to the conclusion that there can be a disconnect between some one's individual identity and their social identity. Reverend Parris in this play is a prime example.
I agree with you on your post. Very nice detail. I never got how the witch trials started or even where they came from. Probably something I will never understand.
ReplyDeleteI like how you mentioned the reverend and how he is prime example of individual identity and social identity. Just like to me with Abigail she was so upset because John was going to end their affair so she wanted to get his wife out of the picture she was upset that the guy she wants to be with doesn't want her anymore when really I'm my opinion I think she did this because she didn't want to go back to that girl on the low rung of the Puritan ladder. He made her feel good so to me I think she more wanted the feeling than she did him. He's a minister so he's looked at being high rank in the women's eyes.
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