The theme of the tragic hero in The Crucible is embodied primarily in the character of John Proctor. According to Aristotle, a tragic hero possesses a flaw leading to their downfall, evoking pity and fear. Proctor fits this mold through his tragic flaw, which is his concern for his reputation and honesty. His refusal to falsely confess to witchcraft, despite the opportunity to save his life, ultimately leads to his execution. This decision highlights his tragic flaw and cements his role as a tragic hero in the narrative.

John Proctor's tragic flaw is his unwavering honesty and concern for his name. In the play's climax, he refuses to sign a false confession, declaring, "Because it is my name! Because I cannot have another in my life!" This refusal results in his execution, a fate that evokes pity due to its unjust nature. Proctor's integrity and honor make his downfall particularly poignant, as he stands out as one of the few honest characters amidst the hysteria of the witch trials.

Proctor's tragic end also evokes fear. The audience fears for his life and the consequences of the mob mentality that leads to his demise. This fear is amplified by the historical context of the play, written during the McCarthy trials, reflecting the dangers of mass hysteria and unthinking conformity. Proctor's fate serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of such societal dynamics.

While John Proctor is the primary tragic hero, Reverend Hale presents a variant of this archetype. Unlike Proctor, Hale's downfall is not personal but reputational. Initially supporting the trials, Hale's realization of their falsehood leads him to attempt to stop them. Despite his integrity and decency, Hale's standing in the community is diminished by the end of the play. His experience mirrors the tragic hero's journey, as his adherence to justice and truth results in a loss of respect, aligning him with the theme of the tragic hero.