on witch persecution. These top-ten lists at the Guardian are often pretty interesting, but this one's extremely well-written as well. Here's what Morrow has to say about Arthur Miller's famous witch-hunting play:
Is there anything quite so aesthetically dreadful as a bad production of The Crucible? I think not. Yes, all drama is melodrama, but in writing a tragedy about the Salem witch trials, Miller was running the risk of eschatological soap opera - which is indeed what happens when this play is ill-mounted or indifferently acted. Should you ever hear of a favourably reviewed Crucible, however, don't hesitate to attend: properly staged, Miller's critique of religiosity is a religious experience. If no such theatre-going opportunity lies at hand, your next best option is the printed text. True, the author occasionally departs from the historical facts, and his decision to frame the story as a dress-rehearsal for McCarthyism feels heavy-handed in retrospect. But this is a beautifully structured work, full of searing moments and resonant speeches.
What I want to read: Morrow's new novel The Last Witchfinder.
The current RSC production of The Crucible is said to be excellent. My daughter and her friends saw it in Stratford in Feb, and enjoyed it a lot. The production has recently transferred to London; I've read several extremely enthusiastic reviews.
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