In Arthur Miller’s The Crucible, guilt deeply affects the actions and behavior of the characters. The guilt that the character feels is the driving force that causes them to make decisions that they would not have made otherwise. In the play, the characters' guilt stems from multiple sources, including their misdeeds and the social pressures of Salem's puritan community. The first character seen with guilt in the play is John Proctor. Farmer Procter had a two-timing affair with Abigail Williams, the main antagonist of the play. He is quickly framed by the guilt of betraying his wife and community, setting off a chain of events that leads to his execution. Proctor’s guilt spreads as he tries to uncover the truth about the witch trials and Abigail’s motives. At first, he fears that his news will damage his reputation, but he later confesses the affair and accuses Abigail of the witch trials to get revenge. Although the truth is later revealed, Proctor’s guilt and complicated moral decisions lead to his tragic end. …show more content…
Hale’s guilt stems from his misled actions and misunderstanding in the investigation of the witchcraft accusation. At first, he believes that the accusation is true, and his investigation leads to the prosecution and execution of innocent people as witches. When he realizes his mistake and is met with guilt, he desperately tries to right the wrong he has done. He returns to the community to try to save Proctor’s life and finish the flawed test that has now claimed so many lives. Guilt has affected Hale’s beliefs and behavior, causing him to seek amends and