A sense of belonging can be created through the enrichment of a group or an individual by challenging their morals and authority. Belonging is an inevitable human condition which empowers an individual for the better or even for the worse. It can be seen as one of the most significant challenges through out ones journey. The effects are substantial and belonging comes at a considerable price. “The Crucible” composed by Arthur Miller, represents and conveys the desires and inabilities to belong to a community, to a group, to ones self and to another.
There are strict rules and guidelines that define the boundaries of belonging to the community of Salem. It is influenced by Salem theocratic and authoritative government. The crucible reflects the many ideas and aspects of belonging. It is represented and conveyed through many characters and their actions. It explores the sacrifices, consequences and failures belonging have on the people. Our main character John Proctor does not belong to the community, as he carries around strong burdens that separate him from feeling as though he belongs to society, we see this when Proctor says “fire is burning! I hear the boot of Lucifer, I see his filthy face! And it is my face” this is a personal attack on him self and reflects the inability to belong to himself. The fire represents an image of hell and punishment, in what he thinks he deserves. Proctor is a bit of an outcast, he does not get along with many other characters due to his firm morals, values and beliefs. Belonging to the community entails conformity; the authorities of Salem believe everyone is to uphold the same values and beliefs. Though Proctor is very anti-authority, very moralistic and not easily led and therefore a non-conformist. Proctor carries the guilt and burden of his affair with Abigail Williams, this lechery is not known to the community but Proctor