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John Proctor Conscience

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In "The Crucible" by Arthur Miller, John Proctor is the play's protagonist, he faces injustice and inner struggles against his own guilt creating a compelling vision of a character torn between societal demands and his own moral conscience. Arthur Miller explores John Proctors' guilt through his moral conscience and actions, emphasizing that guilt is both a burden and a drive for personal growth and redemption. Firstly, Proctor's affair put his relationship with Elizabeth to the test, causing mistrust and tension between them. You will not judge me, Elizabeth. I have good reason to think before I charge fraud on Abigail, and I will think on it"(Miller 58). As the truth of Proctor's betrayal unfolds, and the devastating consequences of his …show more content…

His lack of morality and the breaking of his marriage vows create a permanent sense of guilt in John Proctor, driving him to seek redemption. I have confessed to myself! Is there no good penance if it's not public? God doesn't need my name nailed to the church! God sees my name, God knows how bad my sins are! That's enough for me! "John Proctor confronts his sins and acknowledges the weight of his guilt ( Miller 142 ). His choice of redemption is established by his decision to confess to God privately and not publicly. This moment shows that he understands that true redemption lies in personal reflection as well as in making amends. John Proctor's wife, Elizabeth Proctor, also plays an essential role in his journey to redemption. As she remarks, "I do think I see some shred of goodness in John Proctor." Not enough to weave a banner with, but white enough to keep it from such dogs" She recognizes his sincere efforts to right his wrongs and stand up to injustice, despite his personal imperfections(Miller 133). This acknowledgement from the person closest to him reaffirms Proctor's belief that his redemption is not only possible, but also worth attempting. John Proctors' inner struggle to forgive himself is brought out in his heartbreaking confession "I can't go up on the gallows like a saint. It's a fraud, he said. I am not that man. My honesty is broken, Elizabeth. I'm not a good man" ( Miller 136 ). Although John Proctor is a strong believer in the importance of honesty, he doubts his ability to face up to his mistakes. Proctor's determination to accept his flaws and seek forgiveness represents his ultimate

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