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Vocabulary:
- Target = someone chosen to attack
- Jealous = unhappy because another person has something better
- Community = group of people living together
Story:
Once accusations begin, they are difficult to stop. People remember old problems and arguments. Maybe a neighbor refused to help with farm work last year. Maybe two families have fought for years over a piece of land. Maybe someone is jealous of another person’s success.
These old conflicts make some people look like easy targets. If you accuse someone first, maybe they will not accuse you. Children accuse teachers. Neighbors accuse neighbors. Even respected church members begin to fear for their lives.
The community changes from friendly to suspicious and divided.
Comprehension Questions:
9. What “old problems” return during the trials?
- A. Disputes about trade with foreign ships
- B. Arguments over land, jealousy, and past personal conflicts
- C. Complaints about church music styles
- D. Conflicts over fashion and clothing colors
10. How does fear change the village?
- A. It brings neighbors closer together
- B. It causes a move to Salem Town for safety
- C. It turns a friendly community into a suspicious and divided one
- D. It makes everyone stop attending church