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Essay / Acts of Injustice in The Crucible
Table of ContentsFalse Accusations: A Serious InjusticeManipulation of the Legal SystemDisregard for Human RightsConclusionThe Crucible, written by Arthur Miller, is a gripping play that explores the consequences of hysteria mass and abuse of power. . Set in Salem, Massachusetts, during the infamous witch trials of the 17th century, the play highlights acts of injustice committed against innocent individuals. Through its depiction of false accusations, manipulation of the justice system, and disregard for human rights, The Crucible reveals the devastating effects of injustice on individuals and society as a whole. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay False Accusations: A Grave Injustice One of the most pervasive acts of injustice in The Crucible are the false accusations made against many characters. The girls led by Abigail Williams, the main instigator of the witch trials, falsely accuse innocent people of practicing witchcraft in order to protect themselves from punishment. This act of dishonesty not only destroys the reputation and lives of the accused, but also creates an atmosphere of fear and suspicion within the community. For example, John Proctor, a respected farmer, falls victim to false accusations when Abigail accuses him of being in league with the devil. Despite his innocence, Proctor is unable to defend himself against the weight of the accusations, the justice system being built on the presumption of guilt rather than innocence. This lack of due process further exacerbates injustice as innocent individuals are convicted without proper evidence or a fair trial. Additionally, the false accusations in The Crucible highlight the danger of unchecked power. Through their lies, the girls gain authority and control over the community, manipulating the legal system for their own benefit. This abuse of power not only leads to the unjust persecution of innocent individuals, but also reveals the flaws in a system that allows such manipulation. Manipulation of the Legal System Another act of injustice in The Crucible is the manipulation of the legal system by those in positions of power. Witch trials serve as a platform for individuals to settle personal scores and exert control over others. In this way, the court becomes an instrument of injustice rather than a guarantor of justice. For example, Judge Danforth, who presides over the trials, refuses to accept any evidence that contradicts the girls' accusations. This biased approach to justice demonstrates the Court's desire to prioritize maintaining its power and authority over the truth. As a result, innocent individuals are sentenced to death based on false testimony and unsubstantiated claims. Additionally, the court's reliance on spectral evidence, based on dreams and visions, further highlights the injustice of The Crucible. This type of evidence is devoid of any tangible proof and is purely subjective, yet it carries significant weight in legal proceedings. As a result, innocent individuals are convicted based on imaginary crimes, further highlighting the flawed nature of the legal system during witch trials. Disregard for Human Rights The acts of injustice in The Crucible also extend to complete disregard for human rights. In their quest to eradicate witchcraft, the Salem authorities trample on the rights of individuals, depriving them of their basic freedoms and subjecting them to., 1976.