This study aims to re-read aspects of violence reproduced in The Crucible through the theories of violence of Walter Benjamin, Slavoj Žižek and Hannah Arendt. This study intends to re-read The Crucible through the theories of violence of Benjamin, Žižek and Arendt because of what they commonly emphasized, that is, the fact that escape from stereotype image of violence provides significant implications for contemplation on violence. When we re-read The Crucible by taking one step back from the power of accusation wrapped in fury and lunacy and taking notice on stark law-making and law-preserving nature of Salem society, foundation can be created to contemplate and reflect on its ‘systemic violence.’ In addition, Arendt’s theory of violence which saw opposing relationship between ‘violence’ and ‘power’ and between ‘behavior’ and ‘action’ provides insight into the origin of witch hunt in Salem society and into understanding the meaning of John Proctor’s resistance.

• 노동욱(Part Time Instructor at Seoul National University) | Noh, Dong-wook