Problem 1: How does Miller reveal the tension in the Proctor's marriage both explicitly and implicitly. (i.e. Look for obvious references as well as what can be inferred). Use specific and quoted evidence.
Problem 2: How has Mary Warren changed since the beginning of the play? Has she gained or lost any power among the residents of Salem, and has her power changed throughout this specific Act? Use specific and quoted evidence.
Problem 3: How has the madness increased in Act 2? Explain. Use specific and quoted evidence to support your conclusions.
Problem 4: Compare and contrast the accusations of Elizabeth Proctor, Martha Corey, and Rebecca Nurse to those that have been accused before. What do their accusations reveal about the madness of Salem and the mass hysteria that continues to spread? Use specific, quoted evidence.
Problem 5: Abigail is not present in Act 2. However, the audience learns a significant more about her character. Characterize Abigail based on what you have learned about her from Act 2. Who is Abigail Williams? How would you describe her? Use specific, quoted evidence.
Problem 6: Trace the changes in John Proctor's attitude and interactions with his wife from the beginning of Act 2 to the end. Summarize specific events on the timeline below.
Problem 7: Look back through Act 2 and record specific, quoted evidence that reveals Elizabeth and Abigail's character and their differing relationships with John Proctor. Please Note, the textual evidence you use should highlight the differences between these women.
Problem 8: John Proctor has intimate relationships with both of these women--Elizabeth his wife and Abigail, his mistress for a time.
Why do you believe Miller wanted to contrast these two women so strikingly? Do they have any similarities? What is Miller's purpose for characterizing them in this way? Explain.