Reverend Hale comes to Salem primarily to investigate the presence of witchcraft. He is an expert in identifying and understanding the signs of witchcraft, and the town has summoned him to help determine whether the accusations being made are genuine or simply a result of hysteria.
Hale’s arrival signifies the weighty importance of his knowledge and experience in dealing with supernatural matters. At first, he is confident in his ability to root out the falsehoods and help the townsfolk, believing in the righteousness of his mission. However, as the events unfold, Hale’s perspective shifts dramatically, leading him to question the very foundations of the trials and the motivations behind the accusations.
His character arc illustrates a profound transformation—from a firm believer in the witch hunts to a disillusioned critic of the proceedings—and showcases the impact of the social and moral chaos present in Salem. Ultimately, Hale’s initial mission to save the innocent turns into a struggle to rescue them from the tragic consequences of the trials.