Answer/Explanation:
In Arthur Miller's play "The Crucible," Giles Corey's death in Act Four, paragraphs 173-185, conveys a sense of defiance and integrity in the face of injustice and oppression. Throughout the play, Giles Corey is portrayed as a stubborn and principled character who refuses to compromise his values or betray his friends, even under extreme pressure.
Giles Corey's earlier appearances in the play highlight his skepticism towards the Salem witch trials and his determination to seek justice for those falsely accused. His refusal to name names and his willingness to endure torture rather than implicate others demonstrate his unwavering commitment to truth and righteousness.
In his death scene, Giles Corey's refusal to plead guilty or innocent and his defiant last words ("More weight") symbolize his resistance against the corrupt and oppressive forces that have engulfed Salem. He becomes a martyr for truth and integrity, representing the ultimate sacrifice in the struggle against tyranny and injustice.
For Miller, Giles Corey represents the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of overwhelming adversity. Corey's character serves as a powerful reminder of the moral complexities and ethical dilemmas inherent in times of mass hysteria and political persecution.
