The Character Of John Proctor In The Crucible By Arthur Miller

A crucible is defined as a vessel which can withstand tremendous amounts of heat without faltering. Such an object is relatable to many a character in Arthur Miller’s The Crucible, yet, none so fittingly as John Proctor. Throughout the course of the play, Miller uses Proctor’s adulterous transgressions to emphasise his integrity of character. This very integrity remains unbroken in spite of his accusers attempts to exploit his flaws for personal gain; more specifically, Putnam’s disputes over land ownership and Abigail’s lust for him. This integrity of character is in part attributed to Proctor’s insistence upon remaining upright in his good name. Arthur Muller utilizes the symbolic significance of the title of The Crucible to represent the trials and tribulations of the main characters, specifically John Proctor, in the context of the Salem Witch Trials. …show more content…
To reveal his transgressions of adultery with Abigail would be to dismantle the integrity of his name. Ironically, John’s later revealing of his affair to the court further exemplifies the goodness of his name. Despite his sin of adultery, he willingly sacrifices the goodness of his name to protect his wife. In doing so, he regains the trust and respect of his wife. This unwillingness to tarnish his name under false pretenses reveals to the reader where his priorities stand; those priorities favoring regaining the respect and trust he once had from his as well as redeeming himself in the eyes of