A Study of People and Politics in The Crucible and Citizenfour Anonymous 12th Grade

Composers represent the ultimate powerlessness of ordinary people through the ways in which they explore the complex and dynamic relationship between people and politics. Arthur Miller’s play “The Crucible” written in a communist fearing period within American history known as the “Red Scare”, aims to reveal the effects of mass hysteria upon society and the danger of oppressive governments. Similarly Lauren Poitras’ documentary “Citizenfour” reveals the ultimate powerlessness of ordinary people through her exploration of mass surveillance of citizens globally by governments. Both composers represent the innate tension between people and the political sphere, reconstructing audience’s beliefs and attitudes by promoting their views on freedom and liberty whilst undermining alternate perspectives

The abuse of power by those who manipulate their political power undoubtedly impacts the individual, removing their sense of autonomy and identity. Miller attacks the abuse of power within the Red Scare, with characters such as Danforth and Hathorne representing the unjust use of power for political gain within America’s rigorous attempts to rid communist sympathisers from society. The hyperbole used within the quote “A person is either...