The Reflective Analysis of Abigail's Wishes in The Crucible

What does Abigail wish will happen after testifying in court and pulling the needle out of the poppet?

Does she wish for:

  • for her and Mary Warren to become friends
  • for Abigail to accuse Elizabeth of using the poppet to put a spell on her
  • for Elizabeth to be arrested for witchcraft after the poppet was discovered in the Proctor home

Answer:

After testifying in court and pulling the needle out of the poppet, Abigail wishes for Elizabeth to be arrested for witchcraft after the poppet was discovered in the Proctor's home.

Abigail's wish for Elizabeth to be arrested for witchcraft reveals her manipulative and vindictive nature. By framing Elizabeth, Abigail seeks to eliminate her competition for John Proctor's affection. This reflects the underlying themes of jealousy, betrayal, and power struggles present in Arthur Miller's play, The Crucible.

Abigail's actions not only lead to the chaos and hysteria in Salem but also demonstrate the dangerous consequences of unchecked ambition and deceit. The play serves as a cautionary tale about the destructive power of lies and false accusations, especially in a society gripped by fear and paranoia.

Overall, Abigail's wish highlights the moral complexities and ethical dilemmas faced by the characters in The Crucible, prompting readers and audience members to reflect on the consequences of personal vendettas and the price of seeking revenge at all costs.

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