John Proctor's Weakness In The Crucible

The tragedy in The Crucible most heavily lies to the extent of moral weaknesses of the characters. Many of the characters in the story are brought to their untimely demise due to one or more other characters exploiting their flaws. One of the main characters to have their weaknesses exploited is John Proctor. While John’s outward appearance would make one believe that he is without fault, it is what lies underneath this image of perfection that exposes his true vulnerabilities.

John Proctor is viewed by the Salem community as a loyal, strong, independent man, and his initial portrayal in the story does not fail to reinforce this image. However, because John is so isolated from the rest of the community, much of his weaknesses are never exposed to the general public. Abigail, John’s affair partner, is able to

John prioritizes how he as well as his family is viewed by others more than anything else. Much of his reasoning behind his actions is that of protecting his family’s image. This directly ties into this affair with Abigail. Proctor does not want his affair with Abby to be exposed to the other members of Salem, or even his own wife. Knowing that John does not want his reputation to be tarnished, Abby is able to make much bolder claims without the concern of Proctor revealing her true intentions. Ultimately, John reveals to the court that he did commit adultery with Abigail, thus disgracing his clean reputation. ”She thinks to dance with me on my wife's grave! And well she might, for I thought of her softly. God help me, I lusted, and there is a promise in such sweat. But it is a whore's vengeance, and you must see it now.” (III.374-384) Proctor overcomes his lust for Abigail by confessing what he knows will crush his public image. He does this not to preserve his own reputation, but instead to protect his wife, as well as his