John Proctor, a god-fearing, self-sufficient, and strong-minded man with a good reputation in The Crucible, faced false accusations of witchcraft in Salem. He had the choice to confess and live or remain silent and be hanged. Proctor chose the latter, accepting his penalty with the belief that he was doing the right thing. I believe Proctor is a virtuous individual because he selflessly refused to confess to false claims, protecting others from being falsely accused in the village. Additionally, he sacrificed his freedom by openly admitting his affair with Abigail, showing his commitment to honesty. Proctor’s words further demonstrate his moral character.
During the trials, John was tested both in his faith to God and in his loyalty to his fellow villagers. Before being sentenced to death, he had the chance to falsely accuse others of witchcraft but refused. This shows John’s goodness as he selflessly refuses to participate in unjust trials and sacrifices his own life by remaining honest and not blaming innocent people. Additionally, John’s character is evident in his words. Often, his controversial statements were actually truths. When he proclaimed, “I say- I say- God is dead!” he suggested that if the town can believe that innocent individuals could be involved in such hypocrisy against their beliefs, then God does not exist in Salem.
Proctor’s quote demonstrates his level-headedness and portrays his intelligence, selflessness, and honesty in The Crucible. Despite succumbing to adultery with the alluring Abigail Williams, Proctor courageously admitted his wrongdoing in court to protect his wife, Elizabeth Proctor. His motivation stemmed from his genuine concern for Elizabeth’s potential prosecution. Considering various perspectives, I wholeheartedly believe that John Proctor’s selflessness, intelligence, and honesty make him an exceptional individual worthy of admiration.
