In Arthur Miller's play "The Crucible," the line "We did dance, uncle" is spoken by the character Abigail Williams. This line is significant because it reveals the activities that took place in the woods, which were considered taboo and a source of shame in the Puritan society depicted in the play.
Abigail and the other girls were caught dancing, which is a major catalyst for the witch trials that unfold in the story. The act of dancing in the woods signifies rebellion against societal norms and the repression experienced by the characters. Furthermore, the line highlights the complexities of Abigail's character and her motivations—she is fiercely determined to escape her circumstances and will go to great lengths, even lying and manipulating others, to achieve her goals.
The themes of guilt, repression, and the consequences of hysteria are central to "The Crucible" and are encapsulated in moments like this one. If you have any specific questions about the play or its themes, feel free to ask!