The Crucible Act III

Martha Corey is on trial It is clear they don’t believe Martha is not a witch – they think everyone accused is guilty Giles disrupts the court proceedings The husbands say that they have proof the girls are frauds Judge Hathorne claims the disruption is contempt of court – he doesn’t like the idea of anyone challenging his authority

Enter John Proctor with Mary Warren It is implied it has been about a week since Act II ended The husbands plead their case Rev. Parris keeps personally attacking Giles, Francis, and John to stir up trouble “This man is mischief” Cheever gives information to make John look bad: “Tore up the warrant” “Plows on Sunday” – naïve participant – he thinks he’s helping, but he is really hurting

The Husbands’ Evidence Petition/Testimony signed by 91 people stating Elizabeth, Rebecca, and Martha never showed signs of dealing with the devil – RESULT – all 91 are arrested for questioning Corey’s deposition stated a friend overheard Putnam thanking his daughter for crying witch on George Jacobs, their neighbor. Corey accused Putnam of killing his neighbors for land – RESULT – Giles is arrested for not giving the name of the friend who overheard Putnam

Mary Warren’s Testimony Danforth threatens jail and hanging When Danforth starts to hear of some of Abigail’s “crimes” he considers Mary is telling the truth Abigail threatens Danforth for questioning her and turns on Mary RESULT – John Proctor realizes they don not believe Mary and Abigail is out of control. He confesses the adultery in an attempt to expose Abigail

Enter Elizabeth Proctor Danforth is in shock after hearing Proctor’s confession and calls for Elizabeth Proctor confirms his wife will never tell a lie After much hesitation, Elizabeth finally answers Danforth’s question – Is your husband a lecher? She replies NO – she lied!

Rev. Hale finally speaks up Hale tries to convince Danforth to trust Proctor Abigail, once again, manipulates the situation. Pretends to see Mary’s spirit in the shape of a bird The girls all turn against Mary mimicking everything she says Danforth threatened to kill Mary if she doesn’t confess to witchcraft

Mary Gives In The pressure is too much and Mary goes back to the girls Mary accuses John Proctor of being a witch Hale quits the court John is arrested