What is one of the main themes explored in The Crucible?

One of the main themes in "The Crucible" is the impact of mass hysteria. Arthur Miller illustrates how fear and paranoia can lead a community to irrational actions, resulting in devastating consequences. The Salem witch trials serve as a powerful backdrop for this theme; individuals in the town become engulfed in a frenzy of accusations and blame. The characters' responses to the perceived threat of witchcraft reflect a breakdown of social order, where personal grievances and unfounded fears spiral into a collective panic. This theme highlights how quickly the stability of society can be undermined when reason is overtaken by fear, showcasing the dangerous ripple effect that mass hysteria can create in a community. Through the character reactions and the unfolding events, Miller critiques the fragility of social trust and the chaos that ensues when a society succumbs to fear-driven actions.