He was terrified that his name would be associated with witchcraft. So, his zealousy in helping the courts helps to alleviate that possibility. Then, add to that the following: if they were wrong in judging all of those people, then their careers are over–especially Danforth’s.

What is Judge Danforth most afraid of?

He was terrified that his name would be associated with witchcraft. So, his zealousy in helping the courts helps to alleviate that possibility. Then, add to that the following: if they were wrong in judging all of those people, then their careers are over–especially Danforth’s.

How is Danforth described in The Crucible?

Danforth is clearly an intelligent man, highly respected and successful. He arrives in Salem to oversee the trials of the accused witches with a serene sense of his own ability to judge fairly. The chaos of the trial doesn’t affect his own belief that he is the best judge.

What is Abigail’s vision?

In Act III, Abigail claims that she sees Mary Warren’s spirit take the shape of bird on the rafters of the court. The “vision” occurs right as the court begins to see through her claims that she and her friends have been afflicted by witchcraft.

Why does Danforth want John to confess?

He wants him to sign his name to the confession, so that it can be hung up for everyone in town to see. Danforth wants to use John Proctor’s name to prove that the witch craft is real and that Danforth/the court did not hang innocent people.

What is Judge Danforth’s argument?

In answer to Hale, Danforth puts forth the argument that witchcraft is an “invisible crime.” Basically, he’s making the claim that such a crime is largely committed apart from the community’s knowledge. Danforth asserts that only the witch and the victim can attest to the guilt of the witch.

How does Danforth assert the power of his authority?

Judge Danforth holds more power. Firstly, he is deputy governor of the state and secondly, he is the presiding officer, which mean he sits on the bench and hears evidence. He is also the one who gives instructions to the other court officials.

Who says I come to do the devil’s work?

Reverend Hale

What does Danforth instruct everyone to do before Elizabeth comes in?

Danforth sends for Elizabeth, whom Proctor says will never lie. While they wait, Danforth instructs everyone to remain absolutely still and silent and to make no signs of any sort. When Elizabeth enters, Danforth asks her whether Abigail and Proctor had an affair.

What tests determine Danforth device?

What test does Danforth device to determine why Abigail was put out of the proctor house? He brings and Elizabeth Proctor along with John and Abigail, however, he has John and Abigail turn around and then asks only Elizabeth why she fired Abigail.

What happened to Judge Danforth?

Danforth died in Cambridge on November 5, 1699.

What motivates Elizabeth to lie How is her lie ironic?

Why is it ironic that Elizabeth lied to the court about her husband’s adultery? Because John had already confessed and he said that she had never lied. It also could have ended all of the trials is she had told the truth.

Is Judge Danforth a fair judge?

Danforth has come to Salem in order to oversee the prosecution of those accused of witchcraft. He has serene confidence in his ability to deliver fair judgment. The hysteria of the trials does not extinguish his personal belief that he is the most qualified judge.

Why is Danforth skeptical of the evidence?

Danforth is skeptical of the evidence that Proctor and the others present to the court because it isn’t easy for him to comprehend. He thinks that no one would falsely accuse another. The only evidence he needs is an accusation because he believe witchcraft is an ‘invisible crime.

Which line best expresses the truth behind the trials?

Which line best expresses the real truth behind the trials? “I have evidence for the court!” “But it does not follow that everyone accused is part of it.”

What is the setting of Act 4?

What is the setting of the beginning of Act IV? They are in the Salem jail, the fall after the trials. So many are in jail that animals are wandering around the village.

What is the setting of Act III?

What is the setting of Act Three? The courthouse. What is the significance of the behind the scenes discussion between Hathorne, Danforth, Martha Corey, and Giles Corey? The judges don’t want to look at the evidence.

Who is Danforth?

Judge Danforth is the deputy governor of Massachusetts and he presides over the witch trials in Salem alongside Judge Hathorne. The leading figure among the magistrates, Danforth is a key character in the story. Abigail Williams may be wicked, but Judge Danforth represents something more agonizing: tyranny.