Well, you can start to approach this topic by looking at the two examples as excellent representations of fear-based reactionism that, when unchecked, has the ability to morph and grow into a living breathing entity with the strength to kill the innocent. Look at fear and what it is. That old adage rings true: F.E.A.R. is False Evidence Appearing Real. And fear unchecked. uncontested, and unhealed as the power to destroy, but it is based on an illusion. Also, the concept of Other or that which does not conform to Hegemony plays out significantly in both works. By creating a climate of fear, fear needs something to attach itself to or project itself upon because it is an illusion. So the Other is created, that which is different or that which resists conformity becomes targeted as foreign, alien, defective, dangerous, insignificant, inhuman. Thus, the false rationale for any number of horrible acts serves as justification. Look up hegemony in the dictionary, and good luck!.

McCarthy used the same kind of tactics in the play to get people to betray their friends and co-workers. Just substitute communist for witch.

The play shows when you disregard the rule of law and reason, people can be falsely accused and punished. And that’s what happen with McCarthy, though no one was burned at the stake dozens of lives where ruined because he able to tar people with the label of communist.

If you have the time get the Crucible on DVD there should be at least one production available. Watch how prosecution traps and forces the accused to either admit to guilt or turn in other “witches”.

Actually the term “witch hunt” became popular because of the play.

i JUST got through this chapter in Lit……Arthur Miller is a communistic man who was criticized by society in a time of turmoil (the cold war) at this time the minds of the people were currupted by their surroundings and began to stereotype and point blame…..mccarthyism describes this time of chaos and ignorance amongst the US brought on by communism…….the crucible is written about the salem witch trials because this was MIller’s way of showing the world how ignorance can lead to nothing but havoc

A whole lot I could write volumes … your Homework is … after all your’s. READ.