The Crucible

In reading The Crucible, we can infer that Hawthorne purposely used figurative langauge in order that the reader could more easily visualize the action and settings. Figurative language is also important in the development of the characters.... in seeing who they are, as well as how they are percieved by others.

One example would be John Proctor's comment to his wife....

"Oh Elizabeth, your justice would freeze beer."

Hawthorne also uses figurative language to describe the mood and emotions of the town.....

"I'll tell you what's walking in Salem-vengeance is walking in Salem."