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Setting
Definition of Simile
A simile is a figure of speech that directly compares two unlike things. To make the comparison, similes most often use the connecting words "like" or "as," but can also... read full definition
A simile is a figure of speech that directly compares two unlike things. To make the comparison, similes most often use the connecting words "like... read full definition
A simile is a figure of speech that directly compares two unlike things. To make the comparison, similes most often... read full definition
Act 1
Explanation and Analysis—A Stallion:
Abigail confronts John Proctor when they are alone together, contradicting him when he flatly states that their affair is over. She uses a simile comparing Proctor to a virile horse to make her statement stronger:
ABIGAIL: I know how you clutched my back behind your house and sweated like a stallion whenever I come near! Or did I dream that? It’s she put me out, you cannot pretend it were you. I saw your face when she put me out, and you loved me then and you do now!
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Explanation and Analysis—Sucking Mouth:
Childbirth in the 17th century was a terrifying prospect for everyone involved and often came with grief. In this passage, Miller uses a simile to convey Mrs. Putnam’s profound fear and sorrow regarding the multiple deaths she had to endure as a mother. Pointing to her unconscious daughter, Goody Putnam explains why she called Reverend Parris in to see her:
Unlock with LitCharts A+MRS PUTNAM: Reverend Parris, I have laid seven babies unbaptized in the earth. Believe me, sir, you never saw more hearty babies born. And yet, each would wither in my arms the very night of their birth. I have spoke nothin’, but my heart has clamored intimations. And now, this year, my Ruth, my only- I see her turning strange. A secret child she has become this year, and shrivels like a sucking mouth were pullin’ on her life too. And so I thought to send her to you.
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Act 2
Explanation and Analysis—Tip-Toe:
No matter what Proctor says, Elizabeth can’t seem to shake her sadness and frustration that he had an affair with Abigail Williams. Proctor uses a metaphor and a simile to emphasize how frustrated he feels, having reached his breaking point after months of contrition and after having fired Abigail. He shouts:
Unlock with LitCharts A+I have gone tiptoe in this house all seven month since she is gone. I have not moved from there to there without I think to please you, and still an everlasting funeral marches around your heart. I cannot speak but I am doubted, every moment judged for lies, as though I come into a court when I come into this house!
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