6. Crucible pg. 83-98

Hale: "Excellency, he claims hard evidence for his wife's defense. I think that in all justice you must-" (86).

Giles presented Danforth with solid evidence, but Danforth still wanted proof: "But proof, sir, proof" (96). He does not question Putnum, but Giles, who has experience with the court and "know[s] [his] rights" (95). Giles knows that if he gives up a name, then that person will be investigated or put into jail under suspicion:"I have brought trouble on these people; I have-" (94). Hard evidence was put on the table, but Danforth has the power to believe what he wants. In this case, he is putting Putnum's accusing finger over the solid evidence of Giles. The court is unjust and Hale is beginning to realize this.


Danforth: "Do you know, Mr. Proctor, that the entire contention of the state in these trials is that the voice of Heaven is speaking through the children?" (88).

Danforth is a fool for believing this. He has a powerful position in court and it would be assumed that the man has common sense. Children are young, naive, and do anything in their power to get what they want, either by throwing a tantrum or acting innocent, like Abigail. How does it make sense that "a Christian girl [has the power] to hang old women" (58)? Danforth is putting a child's judgment over an adult's logical standpoint. There is no proof to even say Heaven is speaking through children. It takes one teenage girl to rally up a group of girls and put on a show. Abigail is clever and controls what goes on in the court. It is easy for Danforth to agree with her and the other accusations because he is not being affected by them.