Mass Hysteria

     In class this week, we started reading The Crucible by Arthur Miller. I am really enjoying reading this play, not only because it is fun to read in class and the plot is intriguing, but also because Miller was inspired to write it through his own experiences during the Red Scare in the 1950's. Because he experienced mass hysteria during the Red Scare, which was similar to the Salem Witch Trials, this gives his piece a whole new dimension.
     During the Red Scare, which was when the United States had a strong fear of Communism, hysteria broke out and accusations were everywhere. Arthur Miller was one of the suspected Communists, so he got to experience first-hand the hysteria that was around him; he related it to what happened during the Salem Witch Trials. In 1692, many women were accused, with no solid proof, of performing witchcraft. Most of the accusations were just thrown out there because people were afraid that the devil was dwelling in their town. During both the Red Scare and the witch trials, many innocent people were punished just because fear infested these communities. This inspired Miller to write The Crucible and warn against mass hysteria.
     In my opinion, even though mass hysteria can be warned against, there is no way of preventing it. The basis of mass hysteria in a community is fear, and there is no way of changing what people are afraid of. If people are afraid of Communists taking over their country, then they'll panic because it's all they can think to do. If people are afraid that the devil is performing acts in their town through witches, then they are going to freak out because they don't know how to react. It is like a domino effect; once the fear starts, it continues to grow and people are knocked down one by one. The fear aspect of mass hysteria cannot be changed; fear will always be a part of humans. What can be improved are the reactions that people have to their fear, and this is what could lessen the negative effects of mass hysteria.