The Crucible--Comparing Play and Movie

Arthur Miller's play, The Crucible, and the movie with the same name have many differences and similarities, all of which contribute to the individual effectiveness of each in conveying their central message. There are several additions and variances in the movie. First of all, the scene where the children and Tituba are dancing in the forest is never seen in the forest; we simply learn of it from dialogue. This scene was most probably added …

…but to me, it wasn't very moving or emotional. The additions made in the movie help to more clearly define the roles of good and evil, and play on the hidden feelings people have. I think most of the additions, if not all, were appropriately made and were quite successful. I enjoyed both the movie and our reading of the play very much, but again, I would have to say that I prefer the movie.