Comparing John And Elizabeth Proctor In The Crucible By Arthur Miller

“The Crucible” by Arthur Miller, is set in the intensely religious society of Salem, Massachusetts during the 18th century and is based on the Salem witch hunts that developed from mass hysteria among the people. “Crucible” can mean different things, such as a very significant and difficult trial or test. John’s and Elizabeth’s marriage is certainly tested. As the play evolves, the relationship between them changes as well. John and Elizabeth Proctor are morally upstanding citizens of Salem. John is a committed religious man who is considered honest and considerate of his friends and family. Elizabeth is one who never lies and is a good person. However, John has lost his good moral standing with Elizabeth. Her idea of John is damaged when she finds out John has had an affair with Abigail, a young girl working in the house. Elizabeth struggles to forgive him and John punishes himself as well. By the end of Miller’s play there is a renewal of the couple’s relationship. …show more content…
Abigail is hurt and uses Salem’s hunt for witches to try and get to John. She and several other young girls are seen dancing in the forest with a black slave named Tituba. Soon after, one of the girls falls ill and the townspeople begin to think witch craft is involved. The panic begins to cause the girls to falsely accuse many innocent people. Abigail eventually includes Elizabeth as one of the accused. People are placed in a moral dilemma, many falsely confess to witchcraft to avoid being hanged. Elizabeth is placed in jail and John believes it is his fault. He rebukes Abigail and pledges to make it right. John loves Elizabeth and now he knows he must atone for his