The Salem (and Other) Witch Hunts

Question

The charges by these youngsters spread like wildfire, and in the spring of 1692, they launched a terrifying wave of hysteria. The Salem witch trials that followed are the subject of Miller’s play. A harrowing example of iniquity and unreason, the tragic proceedings have become synonymous with justice gone mad. In less than a year, over 200 individuals were accused of witchcraft, 20 of whom were executed.

Part A: What is the meaning of "iniquity" as used in paragraph 5?

Part A answer: unfair behavior.

Part B: Which detail from paragraph 5 best supports the answer to Part A?

A. "The charges by these youngsters spread like wildfire".

B. "The Salem witch trials that followed are the subject of Miller's play.

C. "the tragic proceedings have become synonymous with justice gone mad".

D. "20 of whom were executed".

choose the correct answer

Answer 1

The correct answer for Part B is:

C. "the tragic proceedings have become synonymous with justice gone mad".

This detail supports the meaning of "iniquity" as it implies that the actions taken during the trials were fundamentally unjust and morally wrong.