The Crucible - what is there about the society of Salem, which allows the girls stories to be believed?

The Crucible - what is there about the society of Salem, which allows the girls stories to be believed?
The edge of the wilderness was close by. The American continent stretched endlessly west, and it was full of mystery for them. It stood dark and threatening, over their shoulders night and day, for out of it Indian tribes marauded from time to time.
<Tab/><Tab/><Tab/><Tab/><Tab/><Tab/><Tab/><Tab/><Tab/> Act 1.
<Tab/>The Crucible w…