John Proctor Characteristics

Within The Crucible there are diverse characters that each demonstrate characteristics, such as their point of view,morals,religious standpoint, words and actions.One man who conveyed bravery was able to express it through these different characteristics, John Proctor. Proctor faced many conflicts within the play against society, people and even himself. Through all the turmoil and hatred he dealt with and his integrity being continuously challenged, his bravery still withstood it all. Therefore John Proctor can claim the title of truly being a brave man.

Foremost, the main issue Proctor faces is his conflict with himself. Throughout the story . One instance where Proctor maintained his pride was when he was tempted by Abigail. “John- I am waitin’ for you every night, as she grasps his hand.” Although the two characters

both share the same common sin in the past, Proctor has reflected on his mistake. “ Abby, you’ll put it out of mind. I’ll not be comin’ for you more.” He realized how unfaithful he had been to his wife and that he committed a sin against God’s commandment. This resistance reveals his remorse towards the past and instead he justified himself before God, and refused to recollapse into old mistakes.
In addition, to withhold his identity, Proctor also demonstrated resentment toward the interrogating court official Danforth.

In Act IV Danforth antagonized Proctor about his confession that came to surface about him committing adultery. Danforth insisted Proctor sign the sheet of confession in order to hang on the door of the church for all to witness. “Proctor has just finished signing when Danforth reaches for the paper. But Proctor snatches it up, and now a wild terror is rising in him, and a boundless anger.” The reasoning behind this bold action of John’s was simply driven by self-preservation. He knew where he stood with God, the only being qualified to judge him, who had forgiven his sin. Proctor refused to have his named nailed to a door to shame him of his character. Rather he wanted to preserve his name, since afterall it was the only thing he had left to fight for, and he refused for his children to be labeled as a Proctor with a negative message attached. He announces “How may I live without my name? I have given you my soul, leave me my name.” This is a great example of how Proctor faces conflict with others around him and

society.

Throughout the play, see the bravery of John Proctor being steadily exhibited time and time again. His character was repeatedly tested by both himself and people of his society, yet he still stood firm and opposed these things. His discernment is built on a singular basis, which was God. Yes he made mistakes like any human, but he knew God was the only one worthy to judge him. He knew by his grace he was forgiven. He learned from his mistakes and died being a just man representing great integrity.