What is the social repression in play The Crucible by Arthur Miller Miller?

The Crucible by Arthur Miller is a play that explores many themes, including social repression. Social repression is the act of suppressing or repressing certain ideas, behaviors, or emotions. In the play, social repression is most clearly seen in the way that the Puritans suppress their natural desires and emotions in order to conform to the strict moral code of their community. For example, the character of John Proctor is forced to deny his love for Abigail Williams in order to stay in good standing with the community. This denial leads to a great deal of inner turmoil for John, and it ultimately contributes to his downfall.

Another example of social repression in the play is the way that the Puritans suppress their fears of the unknown. The Puritans believe in a strict dichotomy between good and evil, and they are constantly afraid of being condemned to eternal damnation. This fear leads them to be quick to accuse others of witchcraft, even if there is no evidence to support the accusations. This fear also leads them to be distrustful of outsiders and anyone who is different from them.

The social repression in The Crucible is a powerful force that shapes the lives of the characters. It leads to a great deal of suffering and injustice, and it ultimately contributes to the downfall of the Puritan community.