The Crucible John Proctor Character Analysis

Author Arthur Miller implemented the element of heroism into the play The Crucible through John Proctor. When first introduced to Proctor one of the things learned about him is that he is married to one of the most respected women in Salem, Elizabeth Proctor. After learning this we also find out that around 8 months ago, Proctor committed Adultery with the 17 year old Abigail. Throughout the story we are able to see that Proctor is changing to better himself and his wife, he shows he will never give into Abigail again. In the first act of the play we are shown a scene with Abigail and Proctor having a conversation about their past. “Abby, I may think of you softly from time to time. But I will cut off my hand before I’ll ever reach for you again.” (Miller 23). Because John chooses to make …show more content…
When we dive farther into the play we see Proctor perform a great act of heroism and defend his wife who is being accused of witchcraft by Abigail. “She thinks to dance with me on my wife’s grave! And well she might, for I thought of her softly.” (Miller 110). By Proctor saying this he is showing that Abigail wants Elizabeth dead so she can have Proctor as her own. Although Proctor defends his wife he also says that Abigail has a reason to want Elizabeth dead, he stays true and shows that for a brief moment he once thought of being with Abigail. At the end of the play, Proctor has completely changed the way he looks at life from the way he started. “I have been thinking I would confess to them, Elizabeth. What say you! If I give them that?” (Miller 135). Proctor wants to confess his sins of adultery in order to save his wife and stop all the horrific events Abigail has caused over him. He asks Elizabeth what she thinks of his decision, ultimately she says it is his choice. Proctors choices from begging to the end of The Crucible Proctor show that he regrets the pain he caused his wife and all the death the town has