Beginning of Essay
A crucible, as defined by the Merriam-Webester Concise Electronic Dictionary, is "the state or fact of being tested (as by suffering)", which attests to what Elizabeth Proctor is going through exactly. Elizabeth has quite a crucible to struggle through. ....

Middle of Essay
.... with his infidelity. When Reverend Hale questions the couple on the commandments, it is evident that there is still a void between her and John. All commandments could be recited except for adultery. In the puritan culture, adultery is a grievous sin, one punishable by death. She has to live through each day knowing that John was unfaithful, and that he did not fulfill the commitment of marriage. She feels hurt and betrayed, but what Abby tries next is the most underhanded trick possible. Abigail was placed in power due to her "ability" to spot the devil in people. She could see those who trafficked with the devil and who was ....