Question

during - reading activities
directions: read act 2 of the crucible from the line, \quite suddenly, as though from the air, a figure appears in the doorway\ through the end of the act. this section should span from pages 49 to 63 of the file. as you read, answer these questions. when you are finished, save your work and complete the rest of the lesson.

1. make a prediction: why do you think reverend hale has come to see the proctors?
2. what sorts of questions does hale ask proctor? what do you think this indicates about the puritan society in salem?
3. how does proctor feel about parris? use an example from the text to support your answer.
4. how does hale react to proctors claim that abigail told him \it had naught to do with witchcraft\?
5. what news do giles corey and francis nurse bring?
6. how does hale react to the news?

Explanation:

1. Reverend Hale is a witch - hunter. He likely comes to the Proctors to investigate the rumors of witchcraft in Salem and to question them as part of his duty to uncover the truth.
2. Hale asks Proctor about his religious practices like how often he prays and how many of the commandments he can recite. This indicates that in Puritan Salem, religious orthodoxy and strict adherence to religious rules were highly valued and suspicion could fall on those who seemed to deviate.
3. Proctor has a low opinion of Parris. For example, he complains about Parris's greed, such as Parris's demands for gold - candlesticks for the church.
4. Hale is initially skeptical of Proctor's claim. He is committed to the idea that witchcraft is a real and present danger in Salem and is hesitant to accept that Abigail might be lying.
5. Giles Corey and Francis Nurse bring news that their wives have been accused of witchcraft.
6. Hale becomes more cautious and begins to question the validity of the accusations. He realizes that the situation may be more complex than he initially thought.

Answer:

1. He comes to investigate rumors of witchcraft.
2. He asks about religious practices; indicates high value on religious orthodoxy in Puritan Salem.
3. He has a low opinion, e.g., complains about Parris's greed for gold - candlesticks.
4. He is initially skeptical.
5. Their wives have been accused of witchcraft.
6. He becomes more cautious and starts to question the accusations.