Question

In a paragraph, explain why Abigail is not a trustworthy character. What does she do or say? How does she treat the people around her?

Answer 1

Abigail Williams is not a trustworthy character primarily due to her manipulative nature and deceitful actions throughout Arthur Miller's "The Crucible." She exhibits a willingness to lie and betray others to protect herself, as seen when she falsely accuses Elizabeth Proctor of witchcraft in a bid to remove her and win John Proctor’s affection. Abigail's treatment of those around her reveals her self-serving attitude; she threatens the other girls to keep their silence and uses fear to control them, demonstrating a complete disregard for their well-being. Her actions are driven by selfish motives rather than any sense of loyalty or honesty, clearly marking her as an untrustworthy figure in the tumultuous environment of Salem.