what is the social context in this play as a metaphor

the crucible(as in the vessel) represents Salem, itself; the piece of metal inside or whatever is being melted inside represents the people of Salem; the fire underneath the crucible represents the hysteria in the town; the pressure inside the crucible from the heat of the fire(hysteria) represents that accusations and the court. Miller also wrote it as metaphor to the McCarthy witch-hunts in early 1950s.