Why Does John Proctor Show Courage In The Crucible '

Jett Balika

Mrs. Smith

English 10 4 April, 2023

Courage in The Crucible

Thematic statement (with judgment and motif): We should maintain courage

Point 1

Transition + Claim (Topic Sentence): We should maintain courage because it is unselfish.

Evidence A1: In Act III, Proctor confronts the court and the influential Judge Danforth, admitting his adultery and arguing that the girls' accusations are false. He risks not only his reputation but also his freedom and his life in speaking out against the court's actions."I have known her, sir. I have known her." His words represent how he has had an affair with Abigail and by this, he admits to it in court. But, Proctor's actions are motivated not by a desire to save himself but by his belief in justice

Evidence A2: In "The Crucible," the character John Proctor demonstrates courage when he chooses to confess to committing adultery with Abigail Williams to save his wife and other accused individuals from false accusations of witchcraft. John says "I mean to please you, Elizabeth," Indicating he agrees he should expose the lies and wrongdoings of Abigail. This act of courage lessens his guilt, as he can confront his wrongdoing and take responsibility for his actions.

Analysis A2: In the previous paragraph, evidence supports the idea that courage lessens guilt in "The Crucible". Specifically, It pointed to the character of John Proctor and his decision to confess to adultery to save his wife and other accused individuals from false accusations of witchcraft.

Evidence B2: Similarly, in Act 4, Giles Corey courageously refuses to give the names of other accused individuals, even when he knows it will result in his own death. Giles says as he is being crushed by heavy stones, “more weight” This act of courage lessens his guilt for not doing more to stop the witch trials and for previously accusing his own wife of

This act of bravery is significant, as it goes against the court's expectation that accused individuals will name others in exchange for leniency. By refusing to comply with this expectation, Giles Corey is standing up for what he believes is right, even if it means sacrificing his own life.

Concluding statement: To sum up what’s been previously stated "The Crucible" highlights the theme of courage as a means of lessening guilt in its characters. Through the examples of John Proctor, Giles Corey, and others, we see how acts of bravery can allow individuals to confront their wrongdoing and take responsibility for their actions. By standing up for what is right, even in the face of danger, these characters can overcome their guilt and inspire others to do the same.

Point 3

Transition + Claim (Topic Sentence): we should maintain courage because it stays true to morals and beliefs.

Evidence A3: In Act 2, Elizabeth Proctor demonstrates courage by refusing to lie and incriminate others to save her life. She values honesty and integrity over self-preservation, even though it means potentially facing execution. She states, "I cannot lie, John. I cannot lie." Risking her own execution along with her husband’s execution to stay true to what she