Arthur Miller’s play, “The Crucible,” delves into the depths of human nature, exploring the complexity of characters and their motivations. To truly grasp the behavior of the characters in the play, one can refer to Lawrence Kohlberg’s moral precepts for explanation. Kohlberg’s stages of moral development provide valuable insight into understanding the actions and decisions made by the characters in “The Crucible.” Through an examination of Kohlberg’s moral precepts, one can unravel the motivations behind the characters’ behavior, shedding light on the underlying moral dilemmas that drive the narrative. Kohlberg’s first level of moral development, the pre-conventional level, is characterized by obedience and punishment orientation. This level emphasizes the concern for the self in moral decision-making. In “The Crucible,” Reverend Parris represents the pre-conventional level of moral development when he prioritizes his own reputation and status over the well-being of the community. He says, “And I pray you feel the weight of truth upon you, for now my ministry’s at stake, my ministry and perhaps your cousin’s life”. Parris’ preoccupation with his reputation is evident in his words, “my ministry’s at stake.” Here, Parris is primarily concerned about his own standing within the community rather than the truth. His self-serving actions are in line with Kohlberg’s pre-conventional level of moral development, characterized by a focus on self-interest. Similarly, for Abigail Williams it is evident that she behaves in a way to avoid punishment and protect herself. Abigail states, “I want to open myself! I want the light of God, I want the sweet love of Jesus! I danced for the Devil; I saw him; I wrote in his book; I go back to Jesus; I kiss his hand”. Abigails statement reflects her attempt to manipulate the situation in her favor. Her false confession makes it clear that rather than facing the consequences of her actions, she seeks to escape punishment by lying and shifting the blame onto others, as she knows this is what the church expects from her. Furthermore, Reverend Hale, in the beginning is driven by the fear of being implicated himself. He acknowledges, “I dare not take a life without there be a proof so immaculate no slightest qualm of conscience may doubt it”. Hale’s initial stance demonstrates his concern for his reputation and fear of being implicated in the witch trials. He is more concerned about the consequences of his own moral standing and does not want any doubt to be cast upon his decision to take a life.
Kohlberg’s second level of moral development, the conventional level, is marked by conformity and group acceptance. John Proctor’s actions exemplify the conventional level of moral development when he decides to tear up his confession, choosing his integrity over his life. He declares, “I have given you my soul; leave me my name!” Proctor’s decision to sacrifice his integrity reflects the conventional level. His willingness to stand up against false accusations, even if it means facing death, highlights his commitment to morality and ethical principles over his own survival. Rebecca Nurse’s character also embodies the conventional level. She states, “Let you fear nothing! Another judgement waits us all!” Rebecca Nurse’s moral integrity is evident in her refusal to make false confessions. Her statement emphasizes her adherence to her principles, even in the face of adversity. Her courage to face death rather than lie demonstrates her commitment to maintaining good relationships with other and to her own values. Similarly, Elizabeth Proctor declares “He have his goodness now. God forbid I take it from him.” Elizabeth’s decision not to influence John’s decision to confess of not is driven by her moral code. Her willingness to let John make his own decision, even though it may mean his death, reflects her commitment to ethical principles and maintaining good relationships.
Kohlberg’s third level of moral development, post-conventional level. Post-conventional behaviour is when you have your own individual sense of values and ethics. These values and ethics cannot be influenced by reward, punishment or group acceptance. The first post-conventional character is Giles Corey. Giles Corey’s decision to face death rather than betray his friend represents the post-conventional level. He states, “More weight.” Giles Corey’s act of martyrdom highlights his commitment to the principles of justice and fairness, transcending his own self interests. Next character that has an individual sense of values and beliefs to be discussed is Reverend Hale. His transformation is evident when he starts to question the validity of the trials and tries to save the lives of those falsely accused. He asserts, “I denounce these proceedings, I quit this court.” Hale’s decision to renounce the court proceedings shows his shift of moral development. He recognizes the injustice and cruelty of the trials and chooses to stand up against them, even at great personal risk. This decision is driven by his belief in universal principles of justice and fairness. Finally, John Proctor’s decision to confess falsely is driven by his desire to protect his family. He states, “I cannot mount the gibbet like a saint. It is fraud. I am not that man.” Proctor’s ultimate choice to tear up his false confession and face death demonstrates that he prioritizes truth and justice over his own life. In conclusion, Lawrence Kohlberg’s moral precepts provide a comprehensive framework for understanding the behavior of characters in “The Crucible.” The characters’ actions are deeply influenced by their moral development, which can be attributed to Kohlberg’s stages of moral reasoning. By examining the characters through the lens of Kohlberg’s moral stages, one can gain a profound insight into the complex ways of morality, ethics, and human behavior in the play.
