Question

Describe in at least 100 words the differences in the way Judge Danforth and Reverend Hale change during the play.

Answer 1

Reverend Hale is a scholar from Beverly. He was summoned by Parris to investigate the witchcraft that he believes has taken over Salem. At first Reverend Hale approaches his jib with excitement. Hale, however, is too analytical to get caught in the fervour and Euphoria that afflicts the town. As the accusations fly hard and fast and innocent people are being killed, Hale becomes disillusioned with the witch court. Hale regrets the innocent people that he feels responsible for condemning. Hale begins to see the witch court as a self serving entity. The court must find witches to validate their own existence. Hale tries desperately to convince Proctor to confess dark dealings. Hale is fully aware of the hypocrisy and intent of the court. If Proctor confesses, he saves himself and the court will give mercy. Hale knows this and pleads that Proctor play their game. In the end Proctor does not sign, all he has is his name. Reverend Hale is disillusioned; his world has come crashing down.

Answer 2

Judge Danforth in The Crucible represents the over-rigidity of the law. When Danforth arrives in Salem, it is obvious that he is an intelligent, respectable man who believes in his ability to judge fairly. He has a large ego, and he is very proud of himself and his decisions. Even after the trials end in disaster, and it is obvious to everyone that they were a sham, Judge Danforth is still unable to accept that he did anything wrong, or that his judgement might have been clouded. He is so rigid he cannot imagine not sticking to principles, even after these have proven to be wrong.

In contrast to Judge Danforth, Reverend Hale changes significantly throughout the play. While Hale was initially excited to investigate the witchcraft that is supposedly taking place in Salem, he eventually becomes disillusioned with the way the trials are taking place. He begins to realize that the court is only interested in its own survival, and that innocent people are paying the price.