How Does Arthur Miller Use Forgiveness In The Crucible

When individuals feel regret and remorse for their unlawful wrongdoings, they attempt to restore their honorability by repenting from their past offences. In the poem “The Man Who Finds That His Son Has Become a Thief”, Raymond Souster suggests that when parents realize that their own child has committed wrongful actions, they are initially in disbelief but after realizing the truth, they feel disappointment since they regret themselves for not instilling proper moral conduct in their child. In the Act 4 of The Crucible, Arthur Miller suggests that when individuals sincerely express contrition for their past wrongdoings, they are able to reconcile with others around them and earn their forgiveness. Both texts illustrate that after an individual’s

This confession allows their loved ones to realize the sincerity in the individual as they wish to truly penitent themselves for their improper actions. In act four of The Crucible, John Proctor falsely confesses to witchcraft as he believes it is more preferable to die rather than continue to engage in dirty lies. When Judge Danforth commands John to sign the confession as proof that he has truly engaged in witchcraft, John initially profusely refuses to succumb to Danforth’s demands. However, he later decides to sign his name but immediately tears up the confession after signing it. This demonstrates his wish to retain his good name and dignity after confessing a false statement. He is unwilling to furtherly destruct his reputation, as does not want the entire public to be recognize his sinful crime of committing adultery. He is also unwilling to dishonestly confess other people who were suspected of also communing with the Devil. This displays John’s tremendous loyalty for others as wishes for others “that never lied die now to keep their souls.” In comparison with others, John firmly believes that “[he] cannot mount the gibbet like a saint”, illustrating that he perceives himself as a dishonest, disreputable man from the moment he began to feel affection for Abigail. After hearing John’s decision to redeem his honor, Elizabeth expresses her forgiveness for him as she “never knew such goodness in the world” existed. She feels regretful for previously coldly distancing himself due to her suspicion about his relationship with Abigail. As individuals convey their remorse and sorrow for participating in a dishonorable action, they may choose to overcome their guilt and shame