Its themes make it universal and timeless. There is fear, racism, prejudice, superstition, betrayal, love, hatred, lust, loyalty, and power. All of these themes are still around today, and play a large role in all of our lives. It tells a story where a bunch of people, who are afraid of getting in trouble, blame someone else. That is something that happens all of the time, that all of us have done. Others, who are upset because of their life circumstances, look for answers and other sources for their pain. We do that too.
Another things that makes this play universal is the characters. They seem like real, well-rounded characters with strengths and weaknesses that we all can relate to. John is a stubborn, proud man who is trying to fix mistakes that he has made and do the right thing. He is real, grounded, and relatable. Abby is a very dynamic and dividing character, easy to hate and a perfect villian on which to fix our frustration.
A last way that this story is timeless is that its major theme, that of a witchhunt, is still applicable today. In the 1950's, we had the red scare, in the 1980's we had the cold war, and even today in underdveloped parts of the world, actual witch hunts are still happening. Mass hysteria continues to ransack towns hit by disaster, and even sporting events.
Because of its applicable themes, great characters, and recurring situations, this play is timeless, and a great tool for discussion and connections in classrooms.
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