Arthur Miller and McCarthy

Paper Summary:

This paper introduces a theme relating to Arthur Miller and McCarthyism and then offers an annotated bibliography of six books on the subject. This paper notes how Miller criticized McCarthy indirectly with his play "The Crucible," which stands as an indictment not only of McCarthyism but of any such use of hysteria and falsehood to create and manipulate fear during a time of tension.

From the Paper:

"The McCarthy era took advantage of existing tensions in the country over changes after world War II and new fears of a Communist threat directed at America. America was seen as a target because of its influence, the fact that it had the atomic bomb, and because of imperialist designs by Russia. Senator Joseph McCarthy took advantage of the hysteria of the time, and it is not clear how much his actions were simply self-promotion and how much true belief. He showed reckless disregard for any damage he might cause by making unfounded accusations, and in this atmosphere a few managed to criticize him and his methods, often indirectly as playwright Arthur Miller did with his play 'The Crucible', which stands as an indictment not only of McCarthyism but of any such use of hysteria and falsehood to create and manipulate fear during a time of tension."

More papers on Arthur Miller and McCarthy:

• Term Paper # 93931 : "Miller and McCarthy"
• Book Review # 92894 : "Arthur Miller's "The Crucible"
• Essay # 59638 : "The Crucible" and "Rhinoceros"

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