The entire contention of the state in these trials is that the voice of Heaven is speaking through the children.
– Arthur Miller
The Crucible, Act 3. Danforth’s biased handling of the Salem witch trials is a good example of the theme of intolerance. In his statement to John Proctor, he seems to suggest that the court should accept the testimony of the children, because they are the "voice of Heaven." By personifying Heaven in this way, Danforth elevates the importance and credibilty of what they children are alleging. This makes it difficult for any accused person to mount a defense or get a fair hearing.