The Crucible: Class Notes

DIRECTIONS: Each group will create notes for the rest of the class (& other classes to use too). Write notes on the topics listed below on large pieces of paper for the class to read. Please write legibly & clearly. Pick one person who will present & explain your notes to the rest of the class. Save these notes, as we will be working on web pages that will contain the information you included in your notes!

GROUP #1: Setting & Background information for both the play, and the real village of Salem, Massachusetts.

GROUP #2: Themes of the play: what are the overall messages presented by this play? What ideas or thoughts does Arthur Miller want to leave his readers with?

GROUP #3: Character descriptions-List adjectives to describing their personalities as well as their roles in the action of the play: John Proctor, Elizabeth Proctor, Judge Danforth, Abigail Williams, Reverend Parris, Mary Warren, Tituba, Reverend Hale, Giles Corey & Rebecca Nurse.

GROUP #4: Literary elements used by Arthur Miller. Give examples how Arthur Miller uses literary devices in his play. Some suggestions: irony, dialogue, suspense, conflict, mood, foreshadowing, motivation, etc.

GROUP #5: Plot summary by Act. Give a brief summary of the storyline and the action of in each of the four acts of the play.

GROUP #6: Behind the Scenes: Explain the title of the play, its appropriateness, and why Arthur Miller wrote this play (what incident inspired him & why).

-Feel free to use any weblinks on the play or notes from class to help you. Check the resources page below for all Crucible-related links.