Introduction to Proctor's Character

Arthur Miller created John Proctor as an allegory to the McCarthyism period. He represents the victims of hysteria. Though he was innocent he was accused, convicted, and killed. Proctor is the tragic hero of The Crucible. He is a 30 year old farmer whose name is respected in the community. He loathes hypocrisy and has a fatal flaw. He and Elizabeth have three sons. He and his wife are strong Christians though he dislikes the local reverend, Paris. He fell victim to the lies of the young Abigail Williams.
Proctor is a complex character, mixed with pride and self-loathing. He has pride in his community and the contributions he has made to it. He helped to build the town church and has transformed his land into a productive farm. He unlike many citizens of Salem speaks his mind against injustice and authority. Though the play he stand up against the authority to prove him and his wife’s innocence. He even sacrifices his good man for truth. Despite his pride he feels like a sinner. His affair with Abigail made him feel like he wasn’t a good man. Proctor’s flaws make him a tragic hero. He is a relatively good man he is taken to sin by his lust. In the end he regains his goodness and is hung for his honesty. He decides that he can’t bare to have his lie publicized.
He changes his opinion about himself and what’s going on through out the play. From Act I to Act IV his character transforms and evolves.