Look up the meaning of the word which constitutes the title of the play, "crucible", and give a dictionary definition. How appropriate do you consider the title to be? Write a paragraph in answer, referring to one of the play's themes to justify your response.

There are many reasons as to why the crucible by Arthur Miller is named what it is, and it also has a more deep meaning behind it.The dictionary definition of a crucible is firstly; A ceramic or metal container in which metals or other substances may be melted or subjected to very high temperatures, and secondly, a place or occasion of serve test or trial.  I think that this title is somewhat appropriate, as it shows what the characters in the play went through in more of a metaphorical meaning, in comparison to its actual definition of a container. As mentioned previously, a crucible is a small container used to super heat objects for purification, and also to trial and test. The characters in the play go through some very difficult tests, and also the crucible cleanses things, and in this case could be related to the fact that the church and the court are trying to cleanse the community from the devil and all evil, as well as the witches.  A crucible container is also used to heat things up, and this is exactly what happens throughout the story line of the Crucible in Salem. The village/town is constantly having trouble stirred,  rumours being started, and innocent people being blamed, portraying and demonstrating the theme of hysteria. The metaphorical meaning of a crucible is most definitely shown in the play The Crucible and it can be understood why this title is appropriate.