The history between Putnam and Parris is not told explicitly in the play, although the conversation between them as well as the comments of Giles Corey and John Procter in Act I scene I give us a view of their relationship. Parris is a new minister in a town that has had several ministers in seven years. He has met with much opposition from a sector of the church here as evidenced by Proctor's comments about the nature of his sermons. Putnam has been Parris's supporter in these controversies. He says :"..I have taken your part in all contention here, and I would continue, but I cannot if you hold back in this..."
Historically speaking, Miller is accurate in his portrayal of Putnam and Parris as associates. The Putnams were a major family in Salem and were strong supporters of Parris. Their support of Parris was a part of a social conflict between the Putnams and the Porters who wanted to force Parris out of town. This social conflict was most likely a major cause of the witch hysteria that broke out in Salem.
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