In The Crucible Act, What does Parris say he believes motivated Abigail and Mercy?

Question

They feel guilty for the hangings.

Proctor has gone mad and has openly threatened to kill the girls

The rebellion in Andover would motivate the people of Salem to turn against the girls.

The arrival of a new judge would motivate the girls to fear a fair and impartial judge.

Answer 1

In Act IV of The Crucible, Reverend Parris expresses his belief that Abigail and Mercy Lewis are motivated by fear for their own safety and self-interest. He is particularly concerned that the rebellion in Andover could inspire the people of Salem to turn against the girls. Parris fears for his own position and thinks that if the town becomes hostile due to the events in Andover, the girls might be blamed for the chaos and the hangings. So, the correct answer is:

The rebellion in Andover would motivate the people of Salem to turn against the girls.