Question

Final verdicts - analyzing how character action affects plot and theme in act four of the crucible

Answer 1

The hysteria has so overwhelmed Tituba and Sarah Good that they now believe their false confessions were real. Proctor sacrifices his integrity to save his life. The judges' joyful reaction shows they know he's innocent, but must condemn him to maintain their own reputations and make their blindness seem like wisdom.

Answer 2

The last act of the play shows that the judges don't want their reputation to be discredited. The justice system divine and respected organization which the judges don't want to jeopardize its status by accepting the hangings being false. They plan a scheme making Proctor sign a confession that he is a witch. Proctor's refusal of this act and his heroic death is put against the hypocrisy of the judges.