The Crucible Assignments
The Essay
Select one of the topics below and write a 5-paragraph essay with a clear thesis. Your essay should use direct and specific evidence from the play to support your argument.
Essay Topics:
1. Do the witch trials empower people of the community who previously had no power? Is there anything good about that empowerment?
2. Compare and contrast the film version with "your version" as you read the play. Did the filmmaker get anything right? Did the film make errors in its interpretation of the characters?
3. Why is the play still relevant today? Discuss how the play's themes are both universal and enduring.
4. Select one character from the play and analysis his/her role. What does the character symbolize? How does the character change?
5. How does Arthur Miller treat women in the play? Is he a feminist? Why or why not?
Due dates:
First Draft: Friday, Jan. 18
Final Draft: Thursday, Jan. 24
Scene Performance
The 8th grade will perform a scene from the play for the rest of the school.
Students must have their parts memorized. Rehearsals during class.
Performance Date: TBA