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Essay / Examples of Hypocrisy in The Crucible can be found within society. Set in the 17th century during the Salem witch trials, the play explores the harmful effects of false accusations and the manipulation of power. Throughout the play, Miller highlights numerous instances of hypocrisy among the characters, revealing the destructive nature of such behavior. This essay will look at some of the key examples of hypocrisy in The Crucible, highlighting their significance and wider implications. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay The Hypocrisy of Reverend Parris One of the most prominent examples of hypocrisy in The Crucible is played by Reverend Parris. At the beginning of the play, Parris is portrayed as a deeply religious man, constantly preaching the importance of moral integrity. However, his actions contradict his words. Parris is more concerned with his reputation and maintaining his position of power within the community than with the spiritual well-being of his congregation. An example of Parris's hypocrisy can be seen in his reaction to accusations of witchcraft. When his niece, Abigail Williams, and her daughter, Betty Parris, are found dancing in the woods, Parris is quick to deny any wrongdoing on their part. He fears that exposing their actions will tarnish his reputation and standing in the community. Parris's hypocrisy is further exposed when he refuses to acknowledge the truth of the accusations against innocent individuals, such as John Proctor and Rebecca Nurse, in order to protect his own interests. This hypocrisy is significant because it represents the corruption of power and the dangers of self-interest. Parris's actions not only lead to the destruction of innocent lives, but also contribute to the hysteria and general chaos of the witch trials. Miller uses the character of Parris to demonstrate how hypocrisy can lead to the erosion of trust and the breakdown of a community. The Hypocrisy of the Court Another example of hypocrisy in The Crucible can be found within the legal system. The court, which is supposed to defend justice and fairness, becomes a fertile ground for hypocrisy and manipulation. Judges such as Danforth and Hathorne, who are supposed to be impartial and objective, succumb to their own biases and personal agendas. An example of this hypocrisy is evident in the court's treatment of Mary Warren. Mary, a servant in the Proctor household, first confesses to having lied about the existence of witchcraft. However, when she recants her confession and accuses John Proctor of forcing her to lie, the court immediately believes her. This double standard reveals the hypocrisy of the court, which selectively chooses to believe certain individuals based on their own interests. The hypocrisy of the court is further illustrated in its treatment of the accused. Those who are unable to provide concrete evidence of their innocence are automatically considered guilty, regardless of their actual guilt or innocence. This blatant disregard for justice and manipulation of the justice system contributes to the destructive consequences of the witch trials. The Hypocrisy of the Wardens Although John and Elizabeth Proctor are portrayed as victims of the witch trials, they too exhibit examples of hypocrisy. John, in particular, struggles with his own moral integrity throughout., 2003.
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