John

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John Proctor, a farmer, is the protagonist of the story. He is a well-respected man in Salem, but it is revealed that he had an illicit affair with the adolescent Abigail Williams prior to the events of the play. This mistake comes back to haunt him when his wife, Elizabeth, is named a witch by Abigail and the girls who follow her. John is aware—from conversations with both Abigail and his servant, Mary Warren—that the girls have fabricated their accusations. Though he despises the trials, he is initially reluctant to challenge the girls for fear that his indiscretion with Abigail will be exposed, costing him his good name. 

After Elizabeth is arrested, however, John confronts the court with evidence, including depositions and a signed petition vouching for the characters of Elizabeth, Rebecca Nurse, and Martha Corey. His actions are viewed as attempts to undermine the court, and his own integrity and Christian faith are questioned. Eventually, John, too, is imprisoned and accused as a witch.

John initially decides to falsely confess to witchcraft in an attempt to spare his life, but in the end, he refuses to lie and chooses to be executed rather than sacrifice his good name. One of the central conflicts of the play concerns John's internal struggles in the wake of his immoral affair. Ultimately, he redeems his good name and his soul by refusing to surrender his integrity.

Expert Q&A

Why is John surprised by Hale's statement that "some secret blasphemy" caused the confusion?

John is surprised by Hale's statement about "some secret blasphemy" because it indirectly references John's own guilt over his adultery with Abigail, a fact unknown to Hale but known to John and the audience. Hale's belief that a significant hidden sin is causing Salem's troubles resonates with John's internal conflict, as he sees his affair as potentially fueling the witchcraft hysteria. This puts John in a moral dilemma, torn between confessing his sin and protecting his reputation.

In The Crucible's Act 2, what does John Proctor decide after Mary Warren's warning about testifying against Abigail?

In Act 2, John Proctor decides to confront Abigail Williams to save his wife, Elizabeth, who is falsely accused of witchcraft. Despite Mary Warren's warning that Abigail might retaliate by accusing him of lechery, Proctor resolves to risk his reputation. He plans to force Mary to testify in court and present a deposition from townspeople attesting to the innocence of the accused women, determined to protect Elizabeth at all costs.

What is John Proctor's background, date of birth, death, and number of children in The Crucible?

In The Crucible, John Proctor is depicted as a man in his mid-thirties with three children and one on the way. In reality, he was born around 1631 or 1632, was married three times, and had six children with Elizabeth, his third wife. Proctor was hanged on August 19, 1692, during the Salem Witch Trials. Historically, he had nine children and was the first man accused of witchcraft.

Why is John Proctor sentenced to hang in The Crucible?

John Proctor is sentenced to hang in The Crucible because he refuses to publicly confess to witchcraft. Although he initially signs a false confession to save his life, he cannot bear to have his name tarnished and his confession displayed. His refusal to implicate others and his insistence on maintaining his integrity ultimately lead to his execution, allowing him to die with his self-respect and sense of goodness intact.

How does John Proctor discredit Abby in The Crucible?

John Proctor discredits Abigail Williams by first having Mary Warren testify that Abigail witnessed her making the poppet and inserting the needle, countering Abigail's claim that Elizabeth Proctor's spirit harmed her. Later, in court, John sacrifices his reputation by confessing to an affair with Abigail, asserting she had motives to accuse Elizabeth. Despite his efforts, Elizabeth's lie to protect John's reputation undermines his attempt to expose Abigail's deceit.

What information does John Proctor reveal to Reverend Hale and what is expected of him?

John Proctor reveals to Reverend Hale that Abigail Williams confessed the children's sickness was unrelated to witchcraft, admitting they were "sportin' in the woods" when startled by Mr. Parris. Hale is surprised by this confession and questions why Proctor withheld this information. Proctor explains his ignorance of the situation's severity until that night. Proctor's honesty highlights his moral integrity, while Hale's reaction shows doubt about the Salem witch trials' legitimacy.

Key quotes from John Proctor's admissions of guilt in The Crucible

In Act III of The Crucible, John Proctor admits his guilt by confessing his affair with Abigail Williams, saying, "I have known her, sir. I have known her." He further calls her a whore and describes their encounter in his barn, seeking to discredit her and expose the girls as frauds. Proctor's confession aims to undermine Abigail's authority and reveal her motives.

In The Crucible, what are the consequences of Abigail and John Proctor's affair?

The affair between Abigail and John Proctor leads to significant consequences, including Abigail's intense hatred for Elizabeth, resulting in Elizabeth's false accusation of witchcraft. This animosity stems from Elizabeth dismissing Abigail from their home. The affair also creates tension and bitterness in John and Elizabeth's marriage, causing ongoing conflicts. Additionally, John suffers from self-loathing, feeling unworthy and morally compromised, which influences his decision-making throughout the play. These consequences drive much of the play's conflict and drama.

What evidence does Elizabeth provide to prove John is a good man in The Crucible?

Elizabeth provides evidence of John's goodness by asserting she does not judge him and believes he is inherently a good man, despite his affair with Abigail Williams. She acknowledges his moral lapses but emphasizes his remorse and guilty conscience as signs of his fundamental decency. Elizabeth's long years of marriage with John have convinced her of his innate goodness, even if his actions have sometimes clouded it.

John Proctor's Refusal and Motivation for Tearing Up His Confession in The Crucible

In The Crucible, John Proctor initially confesses to witchcraft to save his life but ultimately refuses to sign the confession. His refusal stems from his desire to preserve his integrity and protect his family's name from shame. Proctor understands that a signed confession would publicly endorse the corrupt court and tarnish his reputation. By tearing up the confession, he redeems himself, choosing personal honor over life. This act reflects his transformation and commitment to truth, despite the personal cost.

Significance of John re-seasoning the soup in The Crucible

In The Crucible, John Proctor's action of re-seasoning the soup symbolizes his efforts to mend his strained marriage with Elizabeth following his affair with Abigail. The gesture reflects his dissatisfaction and desire to improve their relationship. By secretly adding salt and then complimenting Elizabeth's cooking, John attempts to spare her feelings, mirroring his broader efforts to restore harmony and sincerity in their marriage. This act underscores themes of pride, betrayal, and the struggle for redemption.

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