The Crucible - Salem Witch Trials
English
Grade 8
8 questions
~16 mins
1 views0 downloads
About This Worksheet
An exam-style worksheet analyzing the Salem Witch Trials as depicted in Arthur Miller's The Crucible, focusing on understanding context and literary techniques.
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The Crucible - Salem Witch Trials
Subject: EnglishGrade: Grade 8
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Untitled Worksheet
Grade Grade 8
A
Scene Summary and Context
The Salem Witch Trials of 1692 were a dark chapter in colonial American history, marked by mass hysteria and a series of accusations of witchcraft in the Puritan community of Salem, Massachusetts. During this period, fear and suspicion gripped the town, fueled by existing religious and social tensions. Accusations led to trials where many innocent people, including women and men, were convicted and executed. Arthur Miller's The Crucible dramatizes these events, exploring themes of hysteria, reputation, and power. The play uses historical figures and scenes to depict how fear can manipulate justice and morality. Phrases like 'mass hysteria' and 'witch hunt' symbolize the collective panic and injustice, while individual characters' actions reveal personal motivations and societal pressures.
1.
Describe the overall historical context of the Salem Witch Trials as summarized in the passage.
[2 marks]2.
Identify one phrase from the passage that symbolizes the collective panic in Salem.
[1 mark]3.
What are two themes explored in The Crucible according to the summary?
[2 marks]B
Literary Techniques Analysis
In the play, Miller employs various techniques such as metaphor, symbolism, and irony. For example, the phrase 'mass hysteria' functions as a metaphor for the collective irrational fear gripping Salem. The use of the phrase 'witch hunt' symbolizes the destructive quest for scapegoats and injustice. Miller also employs irony, especially in scenes where characters uphold justice while behaving unjustly, highlighting the disparity between appearance and reality.
1.
Identify one example of metaphor used in the excerpt and explain its significance.
[2 marks]2.
What does the term 'witch hunt' symbolize in the context of the play?
[2 marks]3.
Describe how irony is used in the scenes referenced in the excerpt.
C
Creative Writing Prompt
Imagine you are a person accused of witchcraft during the Salem Witch Trials. Write a monologue expressing your feelings, thoughts, and plea for justice. Use historical context and themes like hysteria, fear, and reputation to inform your writing.
1.
Create a monologue from the perspective of an accused person. Include at least three emotional or thematic elements discussed in the lesson.
D
Character Analysis
Select one character from The Crucible and analyze their role in the Salem witch hysteria.
1.
Choose a character involved in the witch hysteria and analyze their role in escalating or calming the panic.
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Details
- Created
- 12/31/2025
- Updated
- 12/31/2025
- Type
- worksheet