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Essay / The function of Rebecca Nurse in The Crucible
Table of contentsThe symbol of justiceImpact on other charactersThe tragic fate of Rebecca NurseConclusionBibliographyRebecca Nurse, an important character in Arthur Miller's play The Crucible, plays a crucial role in the plot development and exploration of themes. As a respected member of the Salem community, she embodies the values of honesty, morality and compassion. This essay will analyze Rebecca Nurse's role in the play, focusing on her role as a symbol of righteousness and her impact on the other characters. By examining her interactions with various people and her ultimate fate, it becomes clear that Rebecca Nurse serves as a moral compass and catalyst for change in the face of injustice. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay The Symbol of Justice The character of Rebecca Nurse symbolizes righteousness and serves as a beacon of morality throughout the play. Her unwavering faith and adherence to her principles made her a respected figure in the community. In Act 1, Rebecca Nurse is presented as the voice of reason when she attempts to quell the hysteria surrounding the girls' accusations of witchcraft. She states: “Let us instead let ourselves blame ourselves and [...] find the good in it” (Miller, 20). This statement highlights his belief in introspection and personal responsibility, contrasting with other characters' tendency to place blame on others. Additionally, Rebecca's role as a symbol of righteousness is emphasized when she herself is accused of witchcraft. Despite her arrest and trial, she maintains her composure and refuses to make a false confession. This unwavering commitment to the truth and its principles further solidifies its status as a symbol of justice. The audience is left with the impression that Rebecca Nurse's moral integrity is unassailable, even in the face of severe adversity. Impact on Other Characters Rebecca Nurse's presence in the play has a profound impact on the other characters, forcing them to question their own beliefs and actions. . John Proctor is a character greatly influenced by Rebecca. Proctor, initially skeptical of the witchcraft accusations and reluctant to get involved, becomes more involved in fighting the injustice of the trials after Rebecca's arrest. He realizes the need to stand up for what is right, regardless of personal consequences. In Act 2, he exclaims: “I plowed once or twice on Sunday. I have three children, sir, and until last year my land yielded little” (Miller, 60). This change in Proctor's attitude can be attributed to Rebecca's firmness in the face of the false accusations. Likewise, Reverend Hale, a well-respected authority figure, is also influenced by Rebecca Nurse. Before his arrest, he played a leading role in the witch trials, believing himself to be on a just mission. However, as he witnesses the injustice inflicted on Rebecca, he begins to question the validity of the trials and reconsiders his own role in perpetuating the hysteria. In act 4, he pleads: "I denounce these proceedings. I leave this court!" (Miller, 130). This radical change in Reverend Hale's perspective is a direct result of his interactions with Rebecca Nurse, reinforcing his role as a catalyst for change. The Tragic Fate of Rebecca Nurse The ultimate fate of Rebecca Nurse in the play serves to highlight the tragedy and injustice of the Salem Witch. tests. Despite her innocence and the overwhelming evidence in her favor, she is sentenced to death. This result highlights the irrationality and hysteria that have, 1995.