John Proctor is a genuine man. Granted, he’s made a few mistakes, but that should not falter his overall character any. Proctor recovers his sense of dignity as well as his goodness by tearing up the confession paper that would have saved his life. Knowing John’s good conscience and the events that have led up to this moment, this act of morality is truly believable. This feat is also incredibly conscientious.
During open court after Elizabeth had been arrested for witchcraft, John confesses to the act of adultery. His marriage to Elizabeth is nothing short of being bleak and downright awkward. There is no trust. Elizabeth confesses to John that “suspicion kissed you when I did”. Until in (Act 3, line 830) when John goes