compare and contrast themes in the crucible and the film pleasantville

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pleasantville_%28film%29#Themes

http://www.sparknotes.com/lit/crucible/themes.html

Both The Crucible, a play by Arthur Miller, and the film Pleasantville, directed by Gary Ross, explore themes of conformity, individuality, and the dangers of oppressive societal norms. Here's a step-by-step comparison and contrast of the themes in both works:

1. Conformity:
- The Crucible: In Salem, conformity to religious and moral standards is crucial. The characters are expected to adhere strictly to societal norms, and deviation is met with severe consequences.
- Pleasantville: In Pleasantville, conformity is shown through the strict adherence to traditional values and narrow-mindedness. The residents are expected to conform to a perfect and idyllic 1950s lifestyle.

2. Individuality:
- The Crucible: The play also explores the importance of individuality. Some characters, like John Proctor, resist conforming to societal expectations and prioritize their personal values and integrity.
- Pleasantville: The film contrasts with The Crucible by highlighting the significance of individuality. The characters' transformation from black and white to color symbolizes their ability to embrace personal desires and break free from conformity.

3. Oppressive Societal Norms:
- The Crucible: The play depicts the dangers of oppressive societal norms by showcasing the witch trials as a vehicle to suppress individuality, spread fear, and manipulate power dynamics within the community.
- Pleasantville: Similarly, the film criticizes oppressive societal norms by portraying the repression of personal freedom and expression. Initially, residents of Pleasantville are trapped in a monotonous existence until they challenge traditional beliefs.

4. Hypocrisy:
- The Crucible: This play delves into the theme of hypocrisy, where certain characters present themselves as pious and moralistic while engaging in corrupt actions. The hypocrisy of the religious figures in Salem forms a central concern.
- Pleasantville: In the film, the characters also exhibit hypocrisy as they initially conform to the idyllic Pleasantville lifestyle while secretly engaging in "behaviors" that deviate from societal expectations.

5. The Role of Fear:
- The Crucible: Fear plays a significant role in The Crucible, primarily related to the fear of witchcraft and the fear of going against societal norms. The fear of being accused leads characters to make irrational choices.
- Pleasantville: Fear is depicted in Pleasantville as the mechanism that prevents the citizens from embracing change and individuality. Fear of the unknown hinders personal growth and self-discovery.

In summary, both The Crucible and Pleasantville explore themes of conformity, individuality, oppressive societal norms, hypocrisy, and the role of fear. However, they approach these themes from different perspectives and contexts, with The Crucible focusing on the Salem witch trials and the oppressive nature of religion, while Pleasantville critiques societal norms of the 1950s and celebrates personal growth and individuality.

To compare and contrast themes in "The Crucible" and the film "Pleasantville," we'll need to analyze the central messages or ideas presented in both works.

First, let's consider "The Crucible," a play by Arthur Miller:

1. Theme of Mass Hysteria: "The Crucible" explores the destructive power of mass hysteria and witch hunts. The fear of witchcraft spreads through the community, leading to false accusations, trials, and personal vendettas.

To understand this theme, you can read or watch "The Crucible" itself. Analyze the actions and motivations of the characters as they get caught up in the hysteria. Look for instances of manipulation, mob mentality, and the devastating effects of baseless accusations.

Now, let's explore the film "Pleasantville," directed by Gary Ross:

1. Theme of Conformity vs. Individuality: "Pleasantville" delves into the conflict between conformity and individuality. It examines the lives of two modern teenagers (David and Jennifer) who are transported into a black-and-white 1950s sitcom world called Pleasantville.

To explore this theme, watch the film "Pleasantville" and pay attention to how the characters' beliefs and personalities evolve as they challenge the established norms. Observe the introduction of color into the black-and-white world as a representation of personal growth, self-expression, and rejecting conformity.

To compare and contrast these themes:

1. Both "The Crucible" and "Pleasantville" explore the dangers of conformity. While "The Crucible" focuses on the conformity imposed by societal pressure, "Pleasantville" examines the voluntary conformity sought by individuals for security and acceptance.

2. In "The Crucible," the theme of mass hysteria drives the plot, with fear and suspicion leading to a frenzied witch hunt. In "Pleasantville," the theme of conformity is challenged by the introduction of change, color, and individual thought into a stagnant society.

3. While both works engage with similar underlying themes, their settings and contexts differ. "The Crucible" is set in a Puritan society in Salem, Massachusetts, during the late 17th century, while "Pleasantville" portrays a utopian 1950s Americana.

By analyzing the primary sources and understanding the key ideas presented in each work, you can compare and contrast the themes in "The Crucible" and "Pleasantville."