John Proctor's Influence In The Crucible

Leaders within a society who influence public opinion and command the respect of their peers are subject to the desire to preserve the public’s opinion of their good character within the community. John Proctor is a strong-willed, level-headed local farmer who valued his public reputation over his better judgment to challenge the accusations driven by hysteria and put an end to the trials. In the scene at Parris’s house, Proctor misses an opportunity to stop the consideration of witchcraft as the source of Betty’s illness, due to his fear of admitting his amoral relationship with Abigail. His secret relationship with Abigail threatens to diminish his moral standing and influence in the community, as well as, damage his perception of his personal integrity. In the
Leading Proctor to exclaim to Danforth “I have rung the doom of my good name---you will believe me, Mr Danforth! My wife is innocent, except she knew a whore when she saw one!” (111). Therefore, Proctor confesses his sin of adultery attempting to save Elizabeth from the gallows, end the hysteria and stop the trials, however, he forsakes his public reputation and good name.Leaders within a society who influence public opinion and command the respect of their peers are subject to the desire to preserve the public’s opinion of their good character within the community. John Proctor is a strong-willed, level-headed local farmer who valued his public reputation over his better judgment to challenge the accusations driven by hysteria and put an end to the trials. In the scene at Parris’s house, Proctor misses an opportunity to stop the consideration of witchcraft as the source of Betty’s illness, due to his fear of admitting his amoral relationship with Abigail. His secret relationship with Abigail threatens to diminish his moral standing and influence in the community, as well as, damage his perception of his personal