What does the word crucible mean? According to the Webster's English dictionary, it means "a severe test" which can be mentally or physically challenging. In Arthur Miller's drama The Crucible, Miller depicts John Proctor, the play's tragic hero, who is "a sinner not only against the moral fashion of the time, but against his own vision of decent conduct" (Cru. 1.1.838)

Proctor is a good man, honest and upright, but one with a secret, which turns out to be a fatal flaw. His affair with Abigail Williams and Abigail's jealousy towards Proctor's wife, Elizabeth, initiates the witch hysteria. As the trial begins, Proctor realizes that he can stop the accusations led by Abigail in Salem but only if he confesses to his adultery. Elizabeth tries to convince Proctor to tell the court that the allegations are "fraud", but Proctor is a man who places great emphasis on his reputation...