Thesis Statement: Through his characters, Arthur Miller showed how "breaking charity" could destroy a town.
             Giles Corey, an older citizen of Salem, is a character whose thoughtless statements about his wife's actions emphasize the theme of "breaking charity." Before the trials began, the Reverend Hale is brought to the town to investigate the claims of witchcraft. During a simple conversation between prominent members of the town, Giles asks an innocent question, "Mr. Hale, I have always wanted to ask a learned man- what signifies the readin' of strange books" (Miller 846)? By introducing this question and the information that his wife hides the strange books, and that he cannot pray while she is reading them, Corey brings his wife into a connection with witchcraft. He breaks the bonds of marriage when he shares private information. She is tried and sentenced to death by hanging. Giles Corey "breaks charity" with his wife through thoughtlessly sharing innocent, personal information that involves her in the witchcraft chaos. Eventually, Corey is sentenced to death by the court for being unwilling to share the names of those involved in an "overheard" conversation, having to do with land ownership. Corey shows evidence of growth in understanding, as he becomes another victim of the witchcraft chaos, when he refuses to "break charity" with another Salem citizen.
             Another couple that gives evidence on how "breaking charity" can destroy a marriage and lead to death is John and Elizabeth Proctor. A local farmer, John Proctor, has had an affair with young Abigail Williams in the past. Although he has promised his wife to never see Abigail again, the fact that he was an adulterer is a "breaking of charity." This evil returns to haunt the couple when Abigail's jealousy and desire for John leads her to accuse Elizabeth of wi
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