The Crucible

Lesson 7
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ELA

Unit 7

10th Grade

Lesson 7 of 22

Objective


Identify and describe the conflict between the Putnams and the Nurses as developed by Miller in this scene.

Readings and Materials


  • Play: The Crucible by Arthur Miller  — Act I, pp. 24-30

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Target Task


Multiple Choice

Which of the following best describes Rebecca Nurse as she is presented in this scene?

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Writing Prompt

Explain how the above characteristic causes conflict in this scene.

Explain the rivalry between the Putnams and the Nurses. Use evidence to support your answer.

Key Questions


  • What do we learn about Rebecca Nurse on pp. 24–25?

  • What evidence is there that the Nurses had enemies?
  • What does the author most likely mean by the phrase “systematic campaign?”
  • What was the general opinion of Rebecca’s character?
  • Which family was an enemy of the Nurses and why?
  • Track Rebecca’s explanation for the events on pp. 25–27.
  • Contrast the nature of the Putnams to that of Proctor and Rebecca Nurse on pp. 26–27.
  • What is Proctor accused of on p. 27?
  • What can the reader infer about Parris on pp. 27–28? Why might this cause problems?
  • What is Proctor accused of on p. 29?
  • How does Proctor’s major character trait hurt him here? How can it be seen as a flaw?
  • What can the reader infer from Giles’s words on p. 29?
  • Explain the tension between Putnam, Proctor, and Giles on p. 29.

Notes


The text on pp. 24–30 establishes the key conflicts, and students should leave class knowing Parris vs. Proctor is a conflict and Putnam vs. the Nurses is a conflict. Both Parris and the Putnams are driven by a similar jealously of their enemies. This leads to their accusing Proctor and Rebecca of witchcraft later on.

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Lesson 6

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Lesson 8

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