The Crucible

Often in true tests of moral character where people are tempted to decieve, be diihonest, or take advantage of each other, there are few who truly succeed. The story of The Crucible gives one of the strongest tests of morality, where the truly ethical are punished and those of low morale are free to live their lives. The Crucible very well represents that when a situation is life or death human decency crumbles rapidly. The Crucible takes place in Salem, Massachusetts where religion and corruption are rampant. Soon the citizens of Salem spark ideas of evil and witchery in the town. This results in the citizens of the

town pointing fingers at those who appear to have dealings with the devi, which inspires grave misfortune for many. Throughout The Crucible one character John Proctor remains remarkably honest, ethical, he fought for others, and what he stood for even when it meant his life.

John Proctor's truly good moral character and honest personality is first witnessed when he expresses some of his true feelings and affection towards his wife at their home. Two quotes that best represent John Proctors love and overall good feelings for his wife are "I mean to please you Elizabeth". After these words Proctor later goes on to say "I think your sad again. Are you?". These two quotes best exemplify Proctors loving emotions toward his wife Elizabeth. When he asks his wife if she is saddened he shows concern about his loved one's feelings. Proctor does not say these words of love because of some superficial desire such as lust, or greed, but rather he expresses these words out of true love he possesses for her. During John Proctor's time many married men did not give their wives the appraisal that Proctor gives Elizabeth, as it was seen as something that did not need to be said because a husband provided so much for their spouse. John Proctor proves himself as a devoted and loving husband towards Elizabeth in great fashion, and is not afraid to show his true emotion for her.

Not only does Proctor have strong feelings for his wife but also for his fellowman, and how he will go to great extents to protect his neighbor. During the actual trial every main character exposes many strong emotions, and when John Proctor is asked a very trying question of his character he returns a very courageous answer. Judge Danforth questions if Proctor's wife is pregnant then should he keep her another year, and Proctor declines. His reasoning is he has friends who have wives that have also been accused as being witches. This shows Proctor's nature of equality he does not ask for his wife to receive

more time, and this is the women he loves more than anything. Rather he takes into account his numerous friends in the same situation as he and respects them by declining the judges offer, he is trying to protect his friendships by taking this action. This also shows John Proctor protecting his name; he