Exposition (Act One of The Crucible)

A play depends on the dialogue and actions of its characters in the development of its plot. The use of conflict and irony add to the audience's understanding of each character. You see the conflict between the Putnam family and the Corey family over land disputes, and Reverend Parris is so concerned with his reputation that he will not tell the truth about seeing the girls dancing in the forest. Ann Putnam feels the only explanation for losing seven babies in childbirth lies in witchcraft. It is through the characters' various motives and characterizations that your understanding of the story advances. You have gotten a taste of the mass hysteria and madness that is about to befall the citizens of 1692 Salem. In the following topics, you will see just how far these characters will go.