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Essay / Analysis of Thomas Putnam's Character in "The Crucible"
Table of ContentsPutnam's Greed and AmbitionThe Impact of Putnam's ActionsPutnam's Relationship with Other CharactersConclusionThomas Putnam is a complex and intriguing character in the play by Arthur Miller "The Crucible". Throughout the text, his character traits are revealed through his actions, his dialogues and his interactions with other characters. This essay will analyze the character of Thomas Putnam, exploring his motivations, his role in the Salem Witch Trials, and the implications of his actions. By examining Putnam's character traits and how they impact the events of the play, we can better understand the themes and messages Miller conveys.Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay Putnam's Greed and AmbitionOne of Thomas Putnam's key character traits is his greed and ambition. Putnam is portrayed as a rich and powerful man, who is desperate to increase his influence and wealth. This is evident in his relentless pursuit of land and property, as well as his involvement in the witch trials. Putnam uses the hysteria surrounding the witch trials to settle personal scores and gain more power in the community. For example, he encourages his daughter to accuse others of witchcraft in order to seize their land. This shows Putnam's character as manipulative and willing to exploit the community's fears and superstitions for his own gain. Additionally, Putnam's greed and ambition also contribute to the escalation of the witch trials. He uses his wealth and influence to manipulate legal proceedings, ensuring that those accused of witchcraft are convicted. In doing so, Putnam is able to acquire more land and property from those convicted. This highlights his cruelty and lack of moral conscience, as he is willing to sacrifice innocent lives for personal gain. The Impact of Putnam's Actions Putnam's character traits and actions have a significant impact on the events of the play. His greed and ambition fuel the hysteria surrounding the witch trials, leading to unjust accusations and the execution of many innocent people. Putnam's manipulation of court proceedings ensures that those he wants to eliminate are convicted, thereby contributing to the chaos and injustice of the trials. Additionally, Putnam's actions also have a negative effect on the community as a whole. Witch trials tear the community apart, creating a climate of fear and suspicion. Families are torn apart, friendships are destroyed and trust is broken. Putnam's role in exacerbating this division and distrust highlights the destructive power of greed and ambition. Putnam's Relationship with Other Characters Thomas Putnam's character traits are also evident in his relationships with other characters in the play. His interactions with Reverend Parris, for example, demonstrate his opportunistic nature. Putnam uses Parris's position and influence to advance his own agenda, manipulating him to support witch trials and accuse innocent people. Additionally, Putnam's relationship with his wife, Ann Putnam, reveals his desire for power and control. Ann is portrayed as a troubled and grieving woman, who believes she has lost several children to supernatural causes. Putnam takes advantage of her vulnerability, encouraging her to accuse others of witchcraft and seek revenge for their wrongdoings. This dynamic highlights Putnam's manipulation and his will.."