Challenges & Opportunities of Teaching The Crucible

Arthur Miller's The Crucible is a truly great American play and is considered a must read by many. It touches on two defining moments in American history – the Salem Witch Trials of 1692 and the Red Scare of the 1950s. The play offers a great opportunity to create cross-curricular units with both of these historical events.

Of course, even though the play is couched in history, the issues it raises still remain topical – from the literal witch trials that still take place in modern-day Africa to anytime hysteria causes the innocent to be persecuted. We have a feeling that The Crucible is one of those pieces that will (unfortunately) always provide perspective on current events.