Hale is advising for those that are condemned to "lie" by admitting they did deal in witchcraft. Hale believes now that life is more precious than standing on a principle, contrary to his earlier belief.
Reverend Jonathan Hale.
Reverend Hale relates to themes in act 1 and 2 by being smart and dynamic
At the end of act 3 Hale denounced the proceedings and quit the court.
At the end of Act III in "The Crucible," Reverend Hale becomes disillusioned with the court and its proceedings. He realizes that the witch trials are unjust and that innocent people are being condemned. In a desperate attempt to save the accused, he denounces the court and urges the prisoners to confess to witchcraft, even if it means lying, in order to save their lives. Hale's transformation from a fervent supporter of the trials to a critic highlights the themes of integrity and moral conflict in the play.
In Act IV of "The Crucible," Reverend Hale cries, "There is blood on my head!" At the time of this statement, Hale has come to counsel Christians whom are scheduled to die. If they admit to witchcraft crimes they did not commit, their lives will be spared. In the beginning of the piece, Hale is involved in the accusation and sentencing of many innocent people who refused to admit to the false crimes. Their deaths are weighing heavily on him by Act IV, and he is trying to save the lives of those that have not yet been killed.
Reverend Jonathan Hale.
Reverend Hale relates to themes in act 1 and 2 by being smart and dynamic
At the end of act 3 Hale denounced the proceedings and quit the court.
At the end of Act III in "The Crucible," Reverend Hale becomes disillusioned with the court and its proceedings. He realizes that the witch trials are unjust and that innocent people are being condemned. In a desperate attempt to save the accused, he denounces the court and urges the prisoners to confess to witchcraft, even if it means lying, in order to save their lives. Hale's transformation from a fervent supporter of the trials to a critic highlights the themes of integrity and moral conflict in the play.
"nearing 40" Act I (Page 32)
In Act IV of "The Crucible," Reverend Hale cries, "There is blood on my head!" At the time of this statement, Hale has come to counsel Christians whom are scheduled to die. If they admit to witchcraft crimes they did not commit, their lives will be spared. In the beginning of the piece, Hale is involved in the accusation and sentencing of many innocent people who refused to admit to the false crimes. Their deaths are weighing heavily on him by Act IV, and he is trying to save the lives of those that have not yet been killed.
Reverend Hale is outraged at the end of Act 3 because he realizes that the court is prioritizing its authority and reputation over truth and justice. He witnesses the wrongful accusations and the manipulation of evidence against innocent people, particularly John Proctor and Elizabeth. Hale, having initially supported the witch trials, is horrified by the consequences of the hysteria and feels guilty for his role in the proceedings, leading to his passionate condemnation of the court.
Giles reveals that Goody Corey and Rebecca Nurse have been arrested.
Reverend Hale, in act 1, seems to be slightly conceited. He says that his books are, 'weighted with authority.' He also considers himself to be as knowledgeable and intelligent as doctors and other high ranked citizens. However, he is just taking pride in his job. He thinks he witch hunts for a good cause and to help the people of Beverly and Salem, therefore showing his pride in his work.
In Act 3 of "The Crucible," Reverend Hale begins to distance himself from the hysteria surrounding the witch trials as he witnesses the manipulation and injustice taking place in the court. His initial fervor in supporting the trials gives way to doubt when he sees innocent people being condemned based on false accusations and mass paranoia. Hale's plea for Elizabeth Proctor's release highlights his shifting perspective; he now prioritizes truth and justice over blind faith in the court. This transformation marks a significant departure from the hysteria that initially consumed him, as he becomes increasingly critical of the proceedings.
In Act 1 of "The Crucible," Giles Corey reveals to Reverend Hale that his wife, Martha, has been reading strange books, which he believes is causing her to be accused of witchcraft. He expresses his concern and confusion about the situation, showing his distrust of the court's proceedings. Giles's revelation highlights the broader theme of paranoia and the consequences of fear in the Salem witch trials. His character introduces a blend of humor and seriousness, emphasizing the absurdity of the accusations.
In Act 2 of "The Crucible," Reverend Hale criticizes John Proctor for not attending church regularly and for failing to baptize his third son. Hale believes that Proctor's reluctance to conform to religious practices undermines his credibility and moral standing in the community, especially as the witch trials intensify. This criticism highlights the tension between personal beliefs and societal expectations during the Salem witch trials.