Taking place in the Massachusetts Bay Colony of Salem, Arthur Miller’s play The Crucible dramatizes the events of the witch trials in 1692. It follows Abigail Williams in her attempt to frame her ex-lover’s wife, Elizabeth Proctor, for being a witch. Many others are accused of witchcraft and soon the town becomes consumed with the idea, blinded from seeing the truth. Throughout, Miller utilizes foil characterization where a character who contrasts with another character, usually the protagonist, highlights particular qualities of the other character. Usually the foil symbolizes all the character is and all the other character is not. Foils help to sharpen the characteristics of one another through their motives, morals and actions throughout and contribute to the overall plot of the play.
A foil for John Proctor could be found in Reverend Parris. John Proctor is a farmer who previously has an affair with his servant Abigail Williams. On the other hand, Reverend Parris is the minister of the town