In what ways does Arthur Miller critique the legal system through "The Crucible"?

Arthur Miller critiques the legal system in "The Crucible" primarily by highlighting its susceptibility to manipulation and the abandonment of due process. Throughout the play, the legal proceedings during the Salem witch trials are depicted as deeply flawed and influenced by personal agendas, fear, and mass hysteria rather than rational consideration of evidence. Characters like Deputy Danforth and Reverend Hale initially embody the authority of the law, yet their actions reveal how easily the system can be swayed by hysteria or personal vendettas.

The trials discard fundamental principles of justice such as the presumption of innocence and the right to a fair trial. Instead of serving as a means of ensuring justice, the legal framework becomes a tool for oppression and persecution, as seen when accusations are made with little to no evidence, and those who challenge the court's decisions face dire consequences. This portrayal serves as a powerful commentary on how fear and social pressure can corrupt justice and lead to tragic outcomes, reflecting Miller's criticism of both his contemporary society and the broader implications for legal systems.