Essay On Mary Warren In The Crucible

There is an infamous trait that many believe is a core part of human nature; humans only act in self interest. This quality is very recurring throughout many timeless plays and novels, which shows the importance of such a characteristic. It is seen as a key role in making a story more interesting and convincing, since it is such a common and profound nature. Though not extremely obvious at first, it becomes prevalent that the character Mary Warren in The Crucible, by Arthur Miller holds true to these philosophies, and changes her motives throughout the book in order to benefit herself and tear down others. To begin, Mary Warren begins to take different action in order save her good name in the town. After the girls were caught dancing in the forest, Mary’s panic can be seen coming out when the girls are discussing what to do. As all the girls were panicking that Betty was still asleep, Mary proclaims, “Abby, we’ve got to tell. Witchery’s a hangin’ error… we must tell the truth, Abby! You’ll only be …show more content…
After being scolded by John Proctor for going to the court, Mary reasoned with him, explaining that she protected Elizabeth. “I said I never see no sign you ever sent your spirit out to hurt no one” (Miller 492) Mary proclaimed to the Proctors. Mary showed her loyalty to Elizabeth in court. When Elizabeth was mentioned in court, Mary protected Elizabeth’s good name in the town by telling the truth about her. After Abby had framed Elizabeth Proctor with the poppet, Mary refused to hold in her truth about the poppet. Mary confesses,”This poppet this poppet. Why I-I think it is mine” (Miller 500). When Elizabeth was accused of using a poppet to murder Abby, Mary jumped in saying it was hers. Mary’s honest nature shined through as she took ownership of the poppet. Mary, though a virtuous girl, she tended to put her morals aside in certain situations to help herself