What is the main conflict in "The Crucible"?

The main conflict in "The Crucible" centers around the struggle between individual freedom and societal pressure. This play, set during the Salem witch trials, vividly illustrates how the desires and truths of individuals are often stifled by the overwhelming influence of societal norms and expectations. Characters like John Proctor and Elizabeth Proctor experience intense pressure to conform to the community's beliefs and behaviors, especially when fear of witchcraft leads to hysteria and persecution.

John Proctor's internal conflict—his desire to maintain his integrity and speak out against the false accusations—is a powerful representation of the personal struggle against the oppressive societal forces at play. Additionally, the character of Abigail Williams embodies how the pursuit of personal desires can collide with the moral compass of the community, leading to disastrous consequences. The theme highlights the challenges individuals face when asserting their truths in the face of mass hysteria and communal judgment.

While the other options present significant issues relevant to the time or themes of the play, they do not encapsulate the central conflict as effectively as the struggle between the assertion of individual will and the demands of society. The play is fundamentally about how characters navigate their personal beliefs and moral choices amidst the overwhelming pressure to conform.