What is this metaphor comparing in the crucibles?

Question

What is this metaphor comparing in the crucibles? Pleease Help

"We burn a hot fire here; it melts down all concealment"
-This was said by the judge

Answer 1

And for that matter, remember that a Crucible is an object used to melt metal in order to separate the valuable ore from dross. Miller may have used this as a title because the situation in Salem -- and HUAC in the 50's -- was in itself a crucible, which through heat an d pressure revealed the true nature of those involved.

Of course, Judge Danforth was referring to the rigorous nature of the Court's inquiry.

but the important thing is to actually read the play and think about it.

BTW -- Witches were not burned to induce confessions -- witches were burnt as a punishment. And no witches were actually burned at Salem -- all the victims were hanged, save Giles Corey, who was "pressed" -- slowly crushed by large stones being placed on his chest.

Answer 2

It has two layers:

1) a metaphorical fire that the judge will use the light and heat of to find the "truth" -- have you ever heard the phrase "to turn up the heat" on someone, meaning to put them under pressure?
2) The literal fire of burning witches, like the tortures of the Inquisition, which were used in the belief that truth will emerge under pain
3) since he sees himself as an instrument of God, it is also the fires of Hell, which make all who suffer them equal in their pain.

Answer 3

The deeper metaphor is related to the relentless grilling of the McCarthy committee that went after Communists. The entire situation of the play is a metaphor for the ruthless and ignorant destruction of people in the name of a "greater good",

Answer 4

Read the play! Man! You don't even know the name of the judge! (Danforth, byt the way) How are you going to pass this class? It's a great play - read it!