The Crucible/ Mass Hysteria Video Project
Introduction
Although the content of Miller's play focuses on the events of the Salem Witchcraft Trials of 1692, it also serves as an allegory for the McCarthy Communist Hearings of the 1950's. You are going to research other instances where mass hysteria hasruined people's lives and relate them to the tragedy in Salem that Miller wrote about in his play.
Task
Your task will be to take Miller's literal depiction of the Salem "witch hunts" alter the time period and setting and present a dramatic figurative interpretation of the play. You will research a time period in history that can be interpreted as a "witch hunt." In essence, the social conditions need to parallel the conditions that existed in Salem in 1692. Some of the social conditions are: generalized fear, false accusations, false imprisonment or punishment, non-specific enemy, charismatic leader, misunderstanding or false perceptions. You may use a specific scene in Miller's play as your subject matter. You will write a script based on your research, find appropriate costumes, location, and film your play and edit it.
Process
1. Select a time. Here are some topics/time periods:
Alien and Sedition Laws under John Adams administration
Nativist Movement against immigration during the 1850's and 1860's
KKK hate groups of the 1920's
First Red Scare of 1919 and 1920, Sacco and Vanzetti
Civil Rights Movement during 1950's and 1960's
Japanese internment during WWII
Political radicals during the Vietnam War--Kent State
Event following 9/11/2001
Animals Farm of 1984
Robert Roberson case-"Sex Rings" of Wenatchee, WA
2. Research the topic/time period
3. Write a script
4. Find costumes and location
5. Film and edit your "play." Play must be at least 12 minutes.
6. Show film to your classmates in class.
Evaluation
4 - Represents superior modeling of a particular standard
3 - Represent excellent to above average modeling of a particular standard
2 - Represent average to below average modeling of a particular standard
1 - Represents little effort made toward meeting a particular standards
0 - Represents no attempt at meeting a standard
____Creativity-you present a unique and thought provoking interpretation of the play.
____Adherence to text--your interpretation displays a deep understanding of the text and interprets it clearly and accurately.
____Participation-it is apparent that all members of your group made a significant attempt at participating.
____Quality and enjoyability of the performance.
____Length--your presentation is 12 minutes long or more.
____Costume--it is apparent that you made an attempt to create a believable set.
____Delivery-group members are prepared and delivered their lines in a passionate, compelling way.
____Videography-the quality of film editing