Charles Manson deemed himself a disciple of God. He argued that God wanted a race war, and he was to be the one to ignite it. Once the ash had settled, the African Americans would turn to him as a leader for the new civilization.
Jesus Christ claimed to be the son of God. He states that he will return from "the dead" at some point on final judgement day, where all people (living or dead) will be judged. Some will be granted eternal life, while those who fail will be cast into an eternal hell and suffering.
So, what's the difference?
Act 1 of the The Crucible tackles this very question, whether or not it intended to.
We are introduced to the religious towns people, steadfast in their beliefs of God and their ideas of what an ideal society is. At the surface level, this seems a harmless and relatively moral religion. But as the act goes on, it becomes increasingly clear that underlying this faith is a more sinister, echo chamber mentality.
As talks of witchcraft ripple throughout Salem, people are quick to point the finger. With little to no evidence, as many cult leaders such as Charles Manson do. As fingers are quickly pointed at Abigail Williams, she is quick to shift the focus to Tituba. And Tituba's shifts the focus to others. And within only a few lines, people are being blamed left and right, often without any concrete evidence. These accusations are not only insulting, but they have deadly consequences. And anyone who is accused is automatically guilty, and pretty much given a biased trial. But doesn't the Bible state that "killing thy neighbor" is bad?
But because supposed witches don't follow the traditional standards, blatant murder is okay because these women don't fit the status quo. These women are outsiders in a very exclusive society, where reputation means life or death. Life or death, much like cult mentalities.
The Crucible and Salem are prime examples of people dancing the line between religion and cult. A firm faith is included in both. However, religion accepts others, while cults destroy others. Or do they?
The people of Salem don't know this, as they have been indoctrinated to believe in the status quo since birth.
The comparison between cults and religion was very interesting! My question is what do you think the main reason is for someone starting a cult? Money? Fame? Boredom? I personally think it is the desire for power, as well as delusion.
ReplyDeleteI think the main reason is also power, and often times cult leaders aren't mentally sound. They have delusions of themselves being "sent by God" oftentimes, and they're on some sort of mission.
DeleteI love your connection between the Salem society to a cult, I also feel like it's pretty accurate correlation. I also really liked that you used specific people like Charles Manson and Jesus Christ, I think it made your point stronger. The word 'cult' means to care or show adoration, so I also feel like that goes along with your argument too, only making it more accurate. Nice job!
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