2. To explore the nature of mass hysteria: The Crucible delves into the psychology of mass hysteria and how it can lead to the persecution of innocent people. Miller was interested in understanding how ordinary people can become caught up in a wave of irrational fear and suspicion.
3. To examine the conflict between individualism and society: The play raises questions about the tension between individual rights and the needs of society. Miller explores the idea that even in times of great social upheaval, it is important to protect the rights of individuals and resist the temptation to conform to groupthink.