What does the term "crucible" symbolize in the play?

The term "crucible" symbolizes a test or trial in the play. This is significant because the characters in "The Crucible" undergo immense pressure and challenges that reveal their true natures and moral convictions. The intense scrutiny and fear experienced by the townspeople serve as a kind of crucible, where their beliefs, loyalties, and integrity are tested against the backdrop of hysteria and accusation. This aligns with the historical context of the Salem witch trials, reflecting how societal expectations and communal panic can force individuals to confront their identities and make critical choices, often under duress. In this way, the crucible metaphorically represents the severe testing ground for both the personal and social struggles depicted in the play.