Question

from arthur miller, the crucible. copyright 1952 by arthur miller
the previous text suggested that tituba told her story with enthusiasm. how does this play build on or challenge that idea?
it shows how the devil helped tituba tell her story convincingly.
it suggests that the children persuaded tituba to tell her story.
it demonstrates that tituba was frightened into telling her story.
it illustrates how engaged the audience was by tituba’s storytelling.

Explanation:

To determine the correct answer, we analyze each option based on the text from The Crucible:

• Option 1: The text does not show the devil helping Tituba tell her story “convincingly”—instead, Tituba’s mention of the devil and witches is part of the pressure to confess, not the devil actively helping her tell it well. Eliminate.
• Option 2: The text focuses on Hale pressuring Tituba to confess (e.g., “we are going to help you tear yourself free—be witchin’ these children”) and Tituba’s fear (“frightened by the coming process”). There is no indication the children persuaded her. Eliminate.
• Option 3: Tituba says, “I don’t know, sir, but the Devil got him numerous witches” and is described as “weeps” and “frightened by the coming process.” This directly demonstrates she is frightened while telling her story (or being pressured to). This matches.
• Option 4: The text centers on Hale’s interrogation and Tituba’s fear/confession, not on engaging the audience with storytelling. Eliminate.

Answer:

It demonstrates that Tituba was frightened into telling her story.