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  • Essay / Internal and External Conflict in “The Crucible” by Arthur Miller

    In modern societies, we view conflict as a part of our daily lives, which makes it easier to manage. Throughout The Crucible, any conflict presented resulted in a world of chaos that they didn't know how to properly handle. Elizabeth Proctor deals with internal and external conflicts in Arthur Miller's The Crucible, as she showcases the fluctuation of her personality throughout the play. Throughout various scenes and actions, we notice that Elizabeth experiences several different emotions regarding John and Abigail's affair and the fact that she is accused of hurting Abigail. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay After realizing the affair between Abigail Williams and John Proctor, Elizabeth was overcome with devastation. She didn't know how to feel, which is normal. Elizabeth becomes suspicious when she discovers that John lied about visiting Abigail. Elizabeth says on page 28: “Were you alone with her? She goes on to say, “Why then isn’t it like you told me?” She is torn between trusting her husband, whom she has only perceived as a good man, or denouncing him for what he really is. Her attitude towards John changes when she learns that Abigail is considered a saint. Elizabeth wants John to reveal the truth about her, but it is only to get revenge on Abigail for the affair she had with Elizabeth's husband. Elizabeth highlights internal conflicts as it is typical for a woman to experience insecurities when there is infidelity in marriage. Elizabeth was stunned when Reverend Hale came and told her that her name had been mentioned in court. She realizes that Abigail was always trying to get her out of the picture so she could marry Proctor. Abigail has control over Mary and convinces her to place a doll in the Proctor house. Elizabeth knows it's not hers because she hasn't held a doll since she was a child. The doll symbolizes witchcraft because while there is a puncture wound in the same place as Abigail's wound, Elizabeth was using voodoo to harm her. If Elizabeth used the doll, she will be accused of witchcraft and executed. Elizabeth shows external conflict by using the following quote: "You will be free of it when you know that I will be your only wife, or no wife at all." She still has an arrow in you, John Proctor, and you know it. ” (p. 34) This shows an external conflict because she feels like John has taken over for Abigail and still wants to be with her. Elizabeth Proctor has no control over what happens to her husband. His conviction led to several falls. She had no idea that Proctor announced his affair in court, so she denies it. He must accept having to deal with the devil. This ultimately led to Proctors' death..