Salem Witch Trials and McCarthyism Quiz

What was the primary cause of the Salem Witch Trials?

• Economic struggles between townspeople

• A smallpox outbreak

• Fear of witchcraft and religious extremism

• The arrival of British soldiers

How does McCarthyism parallel the Salem Witch Trials?

• Both events focused on political conspiracies.

• Both were fueled by mass hysteria and baseless accusations.

• Both resulted in widespread physical destruction.

• Both were organized to eliminate foreign influence.

Which of the following best defines McCarthyism?

• A movement to promote democracy worldwide.

• A campaign against alleged communists in the U.S. government and other institutions.

• A law passed to limit immigration during the 1950s.

• A policy promoting alliances during the Cold War.

In the overture of The Crucible, Arthur Miller describes Salem as a society where...

• Laws were designed to protect personal freedoms.

• Individualism was encouraged and valued.

• Fear of sin and the devil shaped daily life.

• Economic equality was the highest priority.

What does Arthur Miller suggest in the overture about the impact of repression in Salem?

• It led to a peaceful, orderly society.

• It created fear, suspicion, and scapegoating.

• It strengthened the economy and reduced crime.

• It prevented conflicts between neighbors.

During the Red Scare, what was a common consequence of being accused of communism?

• Immediate imprisonment without trial

• Loss of jobs and blacklisted

• Deported to communist countries

• Forced military service

Why does Miller include detailed historical context in the overture of The Crucible?

• To confuse readers about the main plot.

• To provide background on Puritan beliefs and culture.

• To create suspense before the action begins.

• To compare Salem to modern-day America.

What role did 'spectral evidence' play in the Salem Witch Trials?

• It was physical proof of witchcraft.

• It was evidence based on dreams and visions (Martha Corey).

• It was evidence gathered by priests from Europe.

• It was legal testimony from the accused witches.

What was one major effect of McCarthyism on American society?

• Increased fear of being accused of disloyalty or communism

• Strengthened public trust in government institutions

• Reduced political divisions within the United States

• Greater protections for freedom of speech and due process

What was the primary message Miller intended to convey through The Crucible?

• The dangers of mass hysteria and unjust accusations

• The importance of following religious doctrine

• The value of a strict and orderly society

• The need for witches to be exposed