Why Does Elizabeth Think That Abigail Wants To Kill Her

Why Does Elizabeth Proctor Suspect Abigail of Wanting to Kill Her?

In Arthur Miller's The Crucible, Elizabeth Proctor's suspicion of Abigail Williams' desire to kill her isn't explicitly stated in a single, declarative sentence. Instead, it's a chillingly subtle undercurrent woven throughout the play, fueled by a potent mix of Abigail's vengeful nature, her past actions, and Elizabeth's own acute awareness of the danger Abigail poses. Understanding Elizabeth's suspicion requires examining the intricate web of relationships and events that unfold in Salem.

The Seeds of Resentment: Abigail's Obsession and Rejection

The core of Elizabeth's suspicion stems from Abigail's obsessive infatuation with John Proctor and her subsequent rejection by him. Abigail, a manipulative and narcissistic young woman, is consumed by her desire for John, a desire that knows no bounds. When John rejects her advances and refuses to abandon his wife, Abigail's resentment explodes, transforming into a fierce, dangerous rage. This rage fuels her actions throughout the play, driving her to lash out in ways that directly endanger Elizabeth.

The Affair and its Fallout:

Abigail's brief affair with John Proctor forms the bedrock of the entire conflict. While Abigail attempts to portray herself as an innocent victim, Elizabeth knows the truth. This knowledge fuels her understanding of Abigail’s capacity for cruelty and deceit. The affair wasn't merely a fleeting encounter; it represented a betrayal of trust, both towards John and herself. This betrayal runs deep and shapes Elizabeth's perception of Abigail's potential for further, more extreme actions.

The Power of Jealousy and Revenge:

Abigail's jealousy of Elizabeth is a potent catalyst. She craves the position of John's wife, not just for the social standing, but for the possession of John himself. This desperate longing fuels her plot to eliminate Elizabeth from the equation, paving the way for her to claim John for herself. Abigail views Elizabeth as the obstacle preventing her happiness, transforming her jealousy into a powerful, driving force behind her actions. This isn't simply petty jealousy; it’s a profound resentment that could easily turn deadly.

The Manifestations of Abigail's Malice: Actions Speak Louder Than Words

Abigail's actions, though often veiled in religious fervor, betray her true intentions. Elizabeth, perceptive and intelligent, sees through the charade, recognizing the danger lurking beneath the surface.

The Witchcraft Accusations:

The most glaring manifestation of Abigail's malice is her fabricated accusations of witchcraft. While the accusations are initially directed at others, the ultimate target is Elizabeth. Abigail expertly uses the prevailing fear and paranoia in Salem to manipulate the situation to her advantage. Accusing Elizabeth of witchcraft is not merely a means of getting rid of a rival; it's a calculated move designed to eliminate Elizabeth permanently, silencing her and removing the ultimate obstacle to her gaining John.

The Poppet and the Needle:

The infamous poppet with a needle stuck in it serves as a powerful symbol of Abigail's intent. While Mary Warren claims to have placed the needle in the poppet, the circumstances point strongly towards Abigail's involvement. This act, though seemingly subtle, is a clear threat, a demonstration of Abigail's power to inflict harm through dark magic and manipulation. Elizabeth's understanding of Abigail’s cunning allows her to interpret this event not as a simple coincidence but as a calculated attempt to frame her.

Manipulating Others:

Abigail's ability to manipulate others, particularly the girls in the court, further fuels Elizabeth's suspicion. Abigail skillfully orchestrates a narrative where she presents herself as a victim and Elizabeth as the villain. This ability to control the narrative and shape public perception demonstrates her capacity for orchestrating events that could lead to Elizabeth's demise, not only socially but possibly physically. Elizabeth recognizes that this power of manipulation represents a tangible threat to her life.

Elizabeth's Intuition and the Weight of Evidence

Elizabeth's suspicion isn't merely based on conjecture; it's grounded in her keen observation and understanding of human nature. She’s not a paranoid woman; rather, her suspicion is fueled by a well-founded fear stemming from Abigail's demonstrably dangerous character.

Observing Abigail's Behavior:

Elizabeth is a perceptive observer who carefully assesses Abigail's behavior. She notes the vindictiveness in Abigail’s eyes, the subtle threats woven into her words, and the calculated cruelty behind her actions. Elizabeth doesn't need explicit threats; she understands the unspoken danger that emanates from Abigail's very presence.

Understanding Abigail's Capacity for Deceit:

Elizabeth is aware of Abigail's capacity for deception and manipulation. She's witnessed it firsthand, both in Abigail's attempts to manipulate John and in her ability to control the other girls. This understanding informs her belief that Abigail is capable of anything, even murder, to achieve her aims.

The Weight of Past Actions:

Elizabeth's past experiences, particularly her own betrayal by John, sensitize her to the depths of human depravity. She understands that people are capable of terrible things, particularly when driven by intense emotions like jealousy and revenge. This understanding informs her assessment of Abigail's potential actions. It’s not paranoia; it's informed fear based on real-world understanding of human capacity for evil.

The Climax: Fear Manifested in Silence

While Elizabeth never explicitly states, "I think Abigail wants to kill me," her fear is palpable throughout the play. Her silence, her guardedness, and her pleas for John to be honest all stem from her deep-seated suspicion of Abigail's intentions. Her silence speaks volumes, highlighting the gravity of the threat. The unspoken fear is as powerful, if not more so, than a direct accusation. It underscores the chilling reality of Abigail's manipulative power and the desperate danger Elizabeth faces.

Conclusion: A Fear Justified

Elizabeth Proctor’s suspicion of Abigail’s desire to kill her isn't a mere figment of her imagination; it’s a chillingly realistic assessment of the danger Abigail represents. Abigail's obsession, her vindictive nature, her capacity for manipulation, and her willingness to use the Salem witch trials to achieve her aims all combine to create a credible threat to Elizabeth's life. Elizabeth's suspicion isn't paranoia; it's a well-founded fear, born from the chilling reality of Abigail's actions and her profound understanding of human capacity for evil. The unspoken threat hangs heavy over the play, underscoring the devastating consequences of unchecked ambition and the tragic consequences of mass hysteria. Elizabeth’s silent fear is a testament to the power of observation, intuition, and the understanding of a woman facing a dangerous opponent.