John Proctor Flaws

The Crucible is a tragedy play that retells the witchcraft trials occurring in Salem. Tragedies normally include a main character that suffers and in the end usually dies. Every tragedy has a tragic hero. The tragic hero usually has an error in judgement or a flaw in character, which results in his suffering and misfortunes. John Proctor is a prime example of a tragic hero. In Crucible, John struggles with his guilt over the affair with Abigail which led to lies and unfaithfulness. John is a tragic hero, because of his noble stature, tragic flaw, and self-knowledge.

John Proctor is a man of noble stature. He was not born into nobility, but he possesses the characteristics of a noble man. He is a highly respected man in the village of Salem, because he owns a large amount of land and is a good father. John does not

His tragic flaw is too much pride which eventually leads to his death. John wanted to maintain his good name. “A man will not cast away his good name” John did not want his name tarnished with accusations. A person with a bad name has a better chance of being accused of witchcraft in Salem. John makes a mistake and dishonors his name. He states, “I have made a bell of my honor! I have rung the doom of my good name” John wants to expose Abigail for her lies. He ruins his reputation and pride before the town to reveal the affair. In the final scene, pride is evident when he refuses to sign the written confession. “Because it is my name; Because I cannot have another in my life, Because I lie and sign myself to lies.” John will not sign it and tears it up. He wants to preserve his name and reputation, “How may I live without my name? I have given you my soul; leave me your name.” John is concerned with the reputation of his name and does not want the community to see his name on the church door. He would rather die with a good than live with a bad