John Proctor, a character in the Arthur Miller play “The Crucible,” plays multiple significant roles. “The Crucible” demonstrates similarities between the Salem witch-hunts and McCarthyism during the 1950s. Proctor, like numerous individuals in the 1950s, was unjustly accused of witchcraft and subsequently blacklisted because of allegations linking them to Communism. Proctor, a farmer who disagreed with his minister, Mr. [insert minister’s name here], also lacked harmony with his religious community.
Parris, in his belief, considered Mr. Parris to be a person driven by money rather than being a person of God. Despite not sharing the same views with him, he did not see Mr. Parris as a religious figure.
Despite the fact that Parris wanted him to attend church more frequently, John Proctor disliked going to church because the minister constantly reminded him of his damnation. It is later revealed that Proctor had engaged in an affair with his live-in servant, Abigail Williams. This decision deeply strains his relationship with his wife. In the play, it becomes evident that Proctor has already confessed his infidelity to Elizabeth and has dismissed Abigail. This is a wise decision as it removes the problem when Abigail departs. Despite Abigail’s continued desire for John, he remains faithful to his spouse.
When his wife and friends are accused of witchcraft, John Proctor reveals a different side of himself. This transformation is a crucial element of the story. The man who once deceived his wife and was cold and dark seems to disappear, while a compassionate and radiant man emerges, desperately pleading for the lives of his friends. He resembles a phoenix that rises from the ashes of his transgressions, soaring among those who depend on him to secure their freedom. Similar to the mythical bird’s resurrection, Proctor leaves behind his past mistakes and perseveres through the hardships. Unfortunately, it leads to a tragic conclusion when Proctor compels Mary Warren to expose the truth to the court about the girls’ deceitful use of the judicial system for their own amusement and revenge. Consequently, the girls turn against Mary Warren.
John is in a difficult situation…
