preview

John Proctor Confession

Decent Essays

The Crucible, the playwright written by Arthur Miller that was also the recipient of the 1953 Tony for Best Play, truly illustrates how petrified people were over the Red Scare. Accusing one of witchcraft was a very serious offence that could result in fatal consequences. Some would argue that the witchcraft accusations throughout the play all lead back to one man, John Proctor. If John Proctor had not performed some shameful acts, then it is in fact debatable whether or not he is to blame for the starting of the witchcraft accusations. One question comes to mind when thinking of this, is John Proctor a good man or a bad man? Well, due to the fact that it is human nature to learn from your mistakes no matter the severity of it, John Proctor …show more content…

Proctor’s time did come to an end in The Crucible. He may have died, but he went out an honest man. When it came to signing his testimony, John Proctor was very hesitant. Why did he need to sign a piece of paper when everyone just witnessed his confession? One would not think twice about signing that piece of paper that determined whether or not one was going to live or die. John Proctor, felt very differently. Just as Mr. Danforth was about to take the paper, John Proctor snatches it away from him (1271). When Mr. Proctor asked why he needed to sign the paper, Mr. Danforth said that it was proof for the village. John Proctor replied by saying that he confesses to God and that should be enough. Mr. Proctor then goes on by saying that he wants his children to learn to not sell out their friends, and that he would prefer to have Mr. Danforth tell the village himself and exaggerate what happened in court if he must. John Proctor wants one thing and one thing only; to protect is his name for the sake of himself and his children. Mr. Danforth does not understand why John Proctor wants to deny the confession when he is free. John Proctor justifies his decision by saying that he means to deny nothing and later says how he does not want his name associated with lies. Finally, when Mr. Danforth asks John Proctor which way he chooses to go, Mr. Proctor tears up the piece of paper that has the power to save his life based on one thing; his signature

Get Access