John Proctor Reputation Essay

In the play “The Crucible” by Arthur Miller several characters risk their reputation in many different ways. One specifically, standed out the most. According to dictionary.com, “reputation” means “the estimation in which a person or thing is held, especially by the community or the public generally; repute.” In this town, reputation plays a major role. With lies bashing from left to right it is quite difficult to believe someone who is confessing without evidence to prove he or she is not guilty.

As the whispers grew louder in the town of Salem, the accusations grew as well. John Proctor was a man who stood up for what he believed in. Throughout the play we see fingers being pointed at each other trying to see who can be blamed for witchcraft.

In many cases, the love can not be restored or ever looked at the same. It takes a lot of courage to own up to one's mistakes and forgive that person and soon that person forgive themselves. From start to finish, John Proctor was reminded of his mistakes. Tough he was well aware of his mistakes he always felt guilty and hated himself. Proctor: “On the last night of my joy, some eight months past. She use to serve me in my house, sir. A man may think God sleeps, but God sees everything, I know it now. I beg you, sir, I beg you see her what she is. My wife, my dear wife, took this girl soon after, sir, and put her out on the high road” (Miller 110) Proctor confesses of lechery. He also explains why Abigail accuses Elizabeth of witchcraft so at the end of the day Proctor and Abigail can be together. Once again Proctor goes above and beyond to prove his wife is innocent, despite his good name being stepped on. Proctor: “ I have made a bell of my honor. I have rung the doom of my good name- you will believe me, Mr. Danforth!” (Miller 111) By Proctor confessing his sins, his reputation goes down the drain. He lost the respect he had from his dear old town, but gained the goodness of his dear