Sacrifice In The Crucible By Arthur Miller

For many years now, it has been commonly known that the sacrifices each individual makes, is what determines their own personal values. Sacrifice itself is often used in various literary works when exemplifying characters. These characters are usually face to face with tough decisions they must make in attempt to reach society’s expectations. Throughout these literary works, the authors give the readers an insight on just how far people are willing to go to obtain and protect what they value most. As a result, it also provides the reader with a much deeper understanding about the way human nature and society works. Whether the sacrifice is for honorable or shallow motives, one thing for certain is that people are willing to sacrifice their …show more content…
Seeing that Elizabeth was going to pay the price for his actions, Proctor confessed to adultery by stating, “I have known her, sir. I have known her”, when referring to Abigail. In other words, he confessed to having sexual relations with a minor. Thus, proving he is an honest man that values justice even if it cost him. In addition to confessing adultery on his behalf, Proctor also surrendered his life in attempt to prove his values. By stating, “Because it is my name! Because I cannot have another in my life! Because I lie and sign myself to lies! Because I am not worth the dust on the feet of them that hang! How may I live without my name? I have given you my soul; leave me my name!” Proctor’s unwillingness to sign his confession and take blame for the act of committing witchery, only reflects how much value he has put into not dishonoring other falsely accused prisoners and maintaining his good family name. In a society where one’s reputation is all that matters, the author makes it crystal clear as to why he was willing to go to such extremes, only demonstrating how society has a major influence on everyone as