How do the motivations of the girls change throughout the story?

The motivations of the girls in "The Crucible" evolve significantly as the story progresses, particularly as they initially begin as fearful participants in the witch trials. However, as the hysteria unfolds, they start to recognize the power and influence they hold over the court and the townspeople. This newfound sense of empowerment allows them to manipulate the situation to their advantage, leading to a shift where self-preservation takes precedence over their prior fears.

As tensions rise, the girls begin to turn on each other, demonstrating how their empowerment also breeds competition among them. This betrayal highlights the chaotic atmosphere of the Salem witch trials, where loyalty disintegrates in favor of survival and social standing. The girls’ motivations shift from simply seeking approval and acceptance to actively engaging in a public spectacle that turns tragic and destructive. This transformation is crucial to understanding the broader themes of fear, power, and moral ambiguity within the play.