Ways in which Arthur Miller creates tension in the first act Essay Example for Free

Ways in which Arthur Miller creates tension in the first act Essay In this essay I am going to explore the ways in which the writer, Arthur Miller, creates tension in the first act of The Crucible. Some of the techniques he uses, and I am going to analyse are: pace, fear of witchcraft, disagreements, and the relationships between the characters. The play includes moments in which the pace is slow, this provides a contrast to the moments of climax, when the pace quickens. As there is a change in pace which the readers and viewers cant expect, the tension increases. For example, the scene in which a psalm is gently sung when, suddenly, Betty starts screaming. The play begins steadily and calmly, no tension is thought to be created. The upper bedroom in the home of Reverend Samuel Parris is slowly described, it gives the impression of being a peaceful place. There is a narrow window at the left. Through its leaded panes the morning sunlight streams. A candle still burns near the bed, which is at the right. Some characters introductions and speeches also make the action go slower. Some examples are the introduction of Reverend John Hale Mr Hale is nearing forty, a tight-skinned, eager-eyed intellectual. and the experienced, comforting speech of Rebecca Nurse when Mr Putnam asks her to see if she can wake up his daughter: I think shell wake in time. Pray calm yourselves. I have eleven children, and I am twenty-six times a grandma, and I have seen them all through their silly seasons ( ) These slow scenes give extra emphasis to the parts in which the speed of the scene increases by the things that happen or people say. Any important exclamation in any dialogue or threats to other characters can make the pace change in this way. Some examples are: Abigail Williams threatens Mercy and Betty to be quiet about what really happened the night on the forest.