What does the character of Mary Warren represent in "The Crucible"?

Mary Warren embodies the idea of an unreliable follower who is torn between her desire to support the group and her fear of the consequences that come with standing against the prevailing hysteria. Throughout "The Crucible," her character demonstrates a lack of strong conviction and is significantly influenced by the opinions and actions of others, particularly Abigail Williams and the other girls involved in the witch trials.

Her initial role as a member of the group that engages in the accusations reflects her need for social belonging and the fear of losing her position within that group. However, her character also illustrates a deep internal conflict as she seeks to navigate her own morality amid chaos. When she attempts to tell the truth about the nature of the accusations, she quickly succumbs to pressure and reverts back to aligning with Abigail and the others, showcasing her inability to maintain strong principles in the face of fear.

This vacillation highlights the theme of individual moral dilemmas within the broader societal hysteria present in Salem, marking her as a character who embodies the struggle faced by many during crisis situations, where fear can often overpower reason and integrity. Mary's character reinforces the idea that the pressure of societal expectations can lead individuals to make choices that conflict with their true beliefs.