The Crucible John Proctor Character Analysis

During the 17th century, the Massachusetts Bay colony is notorious for being plagued with witch-hunting hysteria. This event in history is now recognized as the Salem Witch Trials and has lead us to truly reflect on the themes presented by the actions of people involved. The Crucible (1953) is a play written by Arthur Miller, in which he powerfully and poetically suggests, through the scenes in the novel, that one should never compromise their morality. He does this by introducing the leading character, John Proctor, who faces an impossible situation under the circumstances of morality or death. Thus, Miller poses the idea that it is better to die with your integrity, rather than living but falsely confessing to consorting with the Devil.

This ideal is hinted at throughout the book, but the most prominent act where it is portrayed is Act 4. John Proctor was accused by Mary Warren of being an advocate for the Devil, and is therefore put into jail to await his plea. For a moment, it appears that Proctor will confess to the accusations, and he even goes as far as signing the confession. Upon more contemplation and the discovery that his written confession would be publicized he held his stance and chose to hang in spite of Danforth and those who

One such character is Giles Corey who neither confessed nor denied his accusation. He fiercely defended his answer till the very end when he was being pressed with stones and he uttered his last words, “More weight.” (Miller 135). Another supporting character that showed strength in her morals was Rebecca Nurse who responded, “Why, it is a lie, it is a lie; how may I damn myself? I cannot. I cannot.” (Miller 140). Nurse stands by her beliefs, and repeats it for intensification. She even criticized Proctor for considering a confession and remarked, “God send his mercy on you!” (Miller