The Crucible

Lesson 8
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ELA

Unit 7

10th Grade

Lesson 8 of 22

Objective


Characterize Hale and explain what he represents in the play. 

Explain how the role of the Devil has changed in religion over time and explain how the people of Salem viewed him.

Readings and Materials


  • Play: The Crucible by Arthur Miller  — Act I, pp. 31-38

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Target Task


Multiple Choice

What does the phrase “armory of symptoms” on p. 34 suggest about Hale?

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Writing Prompt

According to p. 32, how does the Catholic Church “use” Lucifer, or the Devil? Describe in your own words.

What does Hale represent and what are the Putnams hoping for from his visit to Salem? Explain.

Key Questions


  • Why do you think this is a “beloved” errand for Hale? What can we infer about him from this?
  • Explain Hale’s previous encounter with witches.
  • Why might audiences laugh at the line “We cannot look to superstition in this! The Devil is precise”?
  • When did we begin to see the underworld and the Devil as a hostile area? Why would this be beneficial to those in charge in the church?
  • What does the phrase “armory of symptoms” on p. 34 suggest about Hale?
  • What can the reader infer about Hale based on the information on p. 34?
  • What does the phrase “the Old Boy” suggest on p. 34?
  • What does Hale think of Rebecca?
  • Explain Hale’s warning at the top of p. 36.

Notes


  • In this scene, Miller launches into the history of the Devil in Christianity. Make sure to preface to students that they are reading an author’s work. While Miller implies that the Devil was only created as a scare tactic to keep power for those in power, some religious students may challenge this.
  • Students should understand that Hale represents order, is firmly rooted in his convictions, and actually believes he can help Salem.
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Lesson 7

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Lesson 9

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