How does Miller portray the consequences of the witch hunts on the community?

How does Miller portray the consequences of the witch hunts on the community?

• A. As a means of strengthening community ties
• B. As a source of joy and celebration
• C. As a destructive force that tears the community apart
• D. As a way to reinforce traditional values

Answer: (C)

Miller portrays the consequences of the witch hunts as a destructive force that tears the community apart by illustrating the deep divisions and mistrust that emerge among the townspeople. Throughout the play, fear and hysteria lead to an environment where neighbor turns against neighbor, and longstanding relationships are shattered. The accusations of witchcraft breed paranoia, resulting in chaos that undermines the social fabric of Salem. As individuals prioritize self-preservation and personal gain, the moral integrity of the community erodes, leading to tragic outcomes such as wrongful executions and the loss of innocent lives. This disintegration highlights how fear can manipulate and corrupt a society, emphasizing the destructive nature of the witch hunts. In this way, Miller powerfully communicates the dire consequences of mass hysteria on communal life.

Miller portrays the consequences of the witch hunts as a destructive force that tears the community apart by illustrating the deep divisions and mistrust that emerge among the townspeople. Throughout the play, fear and hysteria lead to an environment where neighbor turns against neighbor, and longstanding relationships are shattered. The accusations of witchcraft breed paranoia, resulting in chaos that undermines the social fabric of Salem. As individuals prioritize self-preservation and personal gain, the moral integrity of the community erodes, leading to tragic outcomes such as wrongful executions and the loss of innocent lives. This disintegration highlights how fear can manipulate and corrupt a society, emphasizing the destructive nature of the witch hunts. In this way, Miller powerfully communicates the dire consequences of mass hysteria on communal life.