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15.1 Place the extract in context - NSC English HL - Question 15 - 2019 - Paper 2
Question 15
15.1 Place the extract in context. Discuss the irony in Hale's statement. 15.4 Refer to line 23: '(hesitating and with a deep hatred of himself)'. Comment on how Pr... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:15.1 Place the extract in context - NSC English HL - Question 15 - 2019 - Paper 2
Step 1
Place the extract in context. Discuss the irony in Hale's statement.
Answer
In the context of 'The Crucible', Hale visits the Proctors with the intention of examining the Christian character of their home. The irony in Hale's statement lies in his initial confidence in his ability to identify witchcraft, which contrasts sharply with his later realization of the chaos and moral ambiguity within Salem. Hale genuinely believes he is on a mission of righteousness, yet he ultimately contributes to the hysteria, showcasing the ironic twist of his role as both an inquisitor and a misguided agent of justice.
Step 2
Refer to line 23: '(hesitating and with a deep hatred of himself)'. Comment on how Proctor's 'hatred of himself' will influence his decisions later in the play.
Answer
Proctor’s deep self-loathing is rooted in his sense of guilt over his affair with Abigail, which he perceives as a betrayal to his wife and himself. This internal conflict propels him toward a desire for redemption. As the play progresses, his self-hatred influences his decision-making, pushing him to eventually confess to his sins publicly, which he hopes will restore his honor and possibly save the lives of others. His struggle with self-acceptance acts as a catalyst for his moral awakening and resistance against the injustices of the Salem trials.
Step 3
Refer to line 19-20: 'She'll kill me ... you, Mr Proctor'! If you were the director of a production of The Crucible, describe how you would instruct the actress playing Mary to deliver these lines. Justify your instructions with reference to both body language and tone.
Answer
As a director, I would instruct the actress playing Mary to deliver these lines with a mix of fear and desperation. Her body language should reflect her vulnerability; perhaps she would tremble slightly, avoid direct eye contact, and take a step back as if trying to distance herself from the danger she perceives. Tonally, her voice should initially be shaky and rise in pitch, conveying her panic. As she speaks 'you, Mr Proctor', there should be a shift to a more pleading tone, emphasizing her emotional turmoil and helplessness in the face of overwhelming fear.
Step 4
Refer to lines 11-13: 'It cannot be ... to hear it.' Account for the presence of only a few people at Proctor's excommunication.
Answer
The scant presence at Proctor's excommunication suggests a growing disillusionment among the townspeople regarding the court's proceedings. Many have come to realize that the trials are unjust and that the court is acting in self-interest rather than upholding true justice. This lack of attendance can be seen as a silent protest against the actions of the authorities and reflects a broader societal fatigue and distrust surrounding the witch trials.
Step 5
Refer to line 12: 'Excellency - a dagger -'. Comment on how Parris's finding of the dagger marks a turning point in his attitude toward the witch trials.
Answer
Parris’s discovery of the dagger signifies a personal threat to his safety and status within the community. Previously, he capitalized on the trials to maintain power, but the dagger transforms his perspective, illustrating that discontent with the trials extends beyond mere political concern. This moment marks a turning point where Parris becomes acutely aware that he is no longer the unchallenged authority; instead, he faces tangible consequences for the ongoing hysteria, prompting him to reassess his position.
Step 6
Danforth's lack of integrity in this extract reflects the lack of integrity in Salem society. Using this extract as a starting point, critically discuss the extent to which you agree with this statement.
Answer
I would agree that Danforth's lack of integrity mirrors the moral decay present in Salem society. Throughout 'The Crucible', Danforth exemplifies a rigid adherence to authority that ultimately undermines justice. His refusal to acknowledge the fallibility of the court system showcases a prioritization of reputation over truth. Similarly, the townspeople's complicity in the trials reflects a collective failure to uphold moral principles. Therefore, this extract serves as a microcosm of the broader societal issues plaguing Salem, where self-interest overrides virtue and integrity.