In Arthur Miller's play The Crucible, the quote "She made me do it! She made Betty do it!" is spoken by Abigail Williams, one of the central characters. This line reflects Abigail's attempt to deflect blame and avoid responsibility for her actions during the Salem witch trials. Abigail is trying to position herself as a victim of manipulation, suggesting that others, particularly Betty Parris, are influencing her behavior.
The quote highlights several themes in the play, such as the nature of hysteria, the consequences of fear, and the dynamics of power and manipulation. Abigail uses this moment to protect herself while also aiming to control the narrative of the events unfolding in Salem. By stating that someone else "made" her act in a certain way, she shifts culpability away from herself and plays into the larger atmosphere of paranoia that characterizes the witch trials. This moment underscores the chaotic and often irrational nature of the fear that grips the community, where accusations can spiral quickly and individuals are scapegoated for their own survival.