Playwright Arthur Miller uses The Crucible to exhibit the theme of protectiveness of one’s reputation and self-image through his character John Proctor. In the play, John Proctors battle to be morally right and his affair with Abigail Williams essentially caused him a great deal of confusion. Proctor ultimately confessed, but was too enveloped in his pride so he refused to have his confession hung up on the church doors. His own refusal to let the reputation he built go to waste is what caused his death and destroyed his reputation.
Early in the play, Elizabeth knew about Proctor’s affair with Abigail. Elizabeth’s cold and distant attitude towards Proctor after his affair caused him an even greater struggle. As Proctor pleads for forgiveness in Act 4, Elizabeth says, “John, it come to naught that I should forgive you, if you'll not forgive yourself.” Proctor was so wrapped up in his wife’s view of him that he was not focusing on how he viewed himself. He could not fathom the looks his wife and he would receive if he confessed of his affair. How was he to expect others to forgive him for his wrong doings if he could not forgive himself? …show more content…
“God help me, I lusted, and there is a promise in such sweat. But it is a whore's vengeance, and you must see it now” (Act 4). He had confessed of his affair with Abigail. Elizabeth is then brought in to confirm Proctor’s confession. Danforth, the judge, then asks Elizabeth, “has John Proctor ever committed the crime of lechery?” (Act 3) to which she says, “No sir” (Act 3). Even Elizabeth knew her husband’s reputation meant everything to him, especially since he was known in the village. Proctor’s wife, Elizabeth Proctor, was aware of his want to save his reputation. Elizabeth willingly lied for the first time in order to keep her husband’s character