Which group held the highest rank in the society of Salem?

In the society of Salem, reverends held the highest rank due to their significant influence and authority in both religious and community matters. The Puritan belief system was deeply embedded in the daily lives of the townspeople, and reverends were viewed as moral and spiritual leaders. Their interpretations of scripture and guidance helped shape the community's values and decisions, particularly during times of crisis, such as the witch trials depicted in "The Crucible."

While landowners and merchants certainly had substantial economic power, it was the reverends who commanded respect and had the ability to sway public opinion and actions, making their position more socially and morally authoritative. Common townsfolk did not possess the same level of influence as the reverends, reflecting a societal hierarchy that placed religious leaders at the top of Salem's social structure.