Comparing Authority Figures in "The Crucible"

Three Men

In the play, The Crucible, by Arthur Miller, there are trio master(prenominal) pledge figures. Unlike what the Bible teaches on this subject, rarefied Samuel Parris, Reverend John Hale, and Deputy Governor Danforth show their understanding of agency in alternate ways. In the Bible, Peter says, . . . I whitethorn not have to be harsh in my affair of office--the warrant the Lord gave me for building you up, not for tearing you win (2 Cor. 13:10). In The Crucible, the Biblical view of authority is contrasted with those of these threesome men. Though the Biblical view of authority is servant-like, these three men fall far short of such standards.

Parris believes that the church building is the master(prenominal) authority over the peck in Salem, and that he is the appointed leader, having power over them. Parris demands that the town obey his subordination as a representative of the church. In the Bible, the book of Romans tells people to submit to authorities (Rom 13:5). Parris constantly feels his authority is being threatened when people question his power-hungry and self-serving ways; he feels persecuted wherever he goes.

Hale is convinced that the written word is the main authority in society. He comments that familiarity is weighted with authority (36), so there should be no question as to the reliability and righteousness of the written word. He assumes that the judicial system knows what is best. He believes that people should be confident, trusting that the court makes the right decisions.

Danforth is truly strict and resolute about his authority in the court and claims that the court is the highest form of authority. Danforth also has a strong flavour that, anyone rebelling against authority is rebelling against what God has instituted (Rom. 13:2). Danforth says, while I discourse Gods law, I will not crack its voice with whimpering (129). In other words, he will not wateryen when speaking Gods will.

The Bible explains that authority is supposed to lift people up and not bring them down. The Bible also clarifies that he who does not obey authority will be punished. Parriss authority is weak in that he is insecure and hides behind the mask of authority of his position. Hales authority is arrogant, for he believes he knows more because of all the knowledge of the occult that he has gained. Danforths is incontrovertible, for he believes adamantly that God is barely and He will reveal to the court what is right. All three men have strong convictions of what authority should be like, however unfortunately, they choose altered Biblical views.

Works Cited:

Miller, Arthur. The Crucible. New York: Penguin Books, 1981.

The Student Bible. third ed. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1996.

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