What are the characteristics of "The Crucible" which make its story timeless and universal?

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.