Reputation In The Crucible By Arthur Miller

According to Webster’s dictionary, the definition of crucible is “a place or occasion of severe test or trial.” In 1692, the Salem witch trials occurred in Massachusetts where several residents were accused of witchcraft. The reputation of many of these individuals and their families were tested and even ruined because of these trials. In Arthur Miller’s play, The Crucible, the author fictionalizes an account of the events to convey that reputation is important in society.

First, Miller conveys to the reader the impact of words in society through the characters speech. Because of his fear that he may lose his reputation, John Proctor chooses to withhold information about his conversation with Abigail because, “[he has] no proof for it” (Miller 2.1.65). Other than revealing the truth of their affair, John Proctor has no way of proving Abigail’s lies. At the time, he believes that ruining his own reputation is inconceivable because he does not want anyone to

While being questioned, John Proctor sacrifices his good standing in the community in order to save his wife when he confesses that “[he has] known [Abigail]” (Miller 3.2.380). By jeopardizing his family's good name, he shows his love for Elizabeth even though he faces severe consequences. Also, because of Elizabeth love for her husband, she is willing to sacrifice her own reputation. When John’s life is on the line, Elizabeth comes to testify and lies for John's reputation sake, even though, “she [has] never lied” (Miller 3.2.410). Elizabeth knows how important John's reputation is to him, so instead of sacrificing him for her good name, she lies to seemingly save his life and reputation. Unknowingly, she has just doomed herself and John, but she strengthens Abigail’s case. Through John and Elizabeth Proctor’s relationship with each other, Miller illustrates the theme that reputation is important within