Elizabeth Proctor The Crucible Essay

Elizabeth Proctor is a complex and dynamic character in Arthur Miller's play "The Crucible." She is a strong and moral woman who is deeply devoted to her husband, John Proctor, but also struggles with her own personal guilt. Elizabeth is a symbol of purity and righteousness in the face of the witch trials, and her refusal to falsely confess to witchcraft is a powerful statement against the corruption and hysteria that has taken over the town of Salem. Despite her initial reluctance to forgive her husband's infidelity, she ultimately shows her love and forgiveness, which leads to John's redemption. Elizabeth's strength and integrity make her an influential and admirable figure in the play.
At the beginning of the play, Elizabeth is depicted

Despite the pressure put on her by the court, she steadfastly refuses to confess to witchcraft falsely. Her refusal to give in to the corrupt system represents a powerful statement against the injustice and abuse of power that has taken over the town of Salem. This is shown in Act II when she states, “It is her dearest hope, John, I know it. There be a thousand names; why does she call mine? There be a certain danger in calling such a name – I am no Goody Good that sleeps in ditches, nor Osburn, drunk and half-witted. She’d dare not call out such a farmer’s wife but there be monstrous profit in it. She thinks to take my place, John.” (Miller 61) This shows that in this time of challenge, Elizabeth is not scared to turn the other way and face the diversity that comes with it. By doing this she is showing that her morals are a top priority for

As she watches her husband struggle to clear his name and protect their family, Elizabeth begins to see the depth of his remorse and his true character. She realizes that he is a good man who has made a mistake, and her love for him begins to overcome her hurt. In the end, Elizabeth forgives John and they reconcile. This is shown in Act II when she stated, “I do not judge you. The magistrate sits in your heart that judges you. I never thought you but a good man, John – only somewhat bewildered.” (Miller 55) Her forgiveness is also shown again later in the play when she voiced, “Your Honor, I – in that time I were sick. And I – My husband is a good and righteous man. He is never drunk as some are, nor wastin’ his time at the shovelboard, but always at his work.” (Miller 113) These both show her forgiveness because she is proving that even though she knows John has committed adultery, she is willing to love him regardless and that she would lie in court to try and save