Describe in your own words the difference between Judge Danforth's reaction to the possibility that the girls were not truthful and Reverend Hale's reaction. Explain how and why they each reacted differently. Your answer should be about 100 words.

judge danforth has staked his reputation as a representative of the law on the outcome of the salem witch trials. therefore, he cannot abide any result other than the condemnation of the accused. since the trials hinge on the girl's testimony (the word of abigail, betty and the others against the accused), he refuses to consider the possibility that they lied. one might even say that he is in denial; such a possibility would mean his end as a respected officer of the law. hale, on the other hand, as a man of god, cares more about the truth in absolute terms. he initially went along with the trials, but as his doubts grew he began to turn against them. he knows his reputation will suffer (or rather, it has already suffered) but, since he now believes the trials to be tainted, he fears for his soul because of his complicity in them. therefore, he is more open to the possibility that the girls lied, and argues forcefully to judge danforth against their testimony.

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