Quote Of John Proctor Confessing To Adultery
Introduction
John Proctor is the protagonist in the play "The Crucible" written by Arthur Miller. The play is based on the Salem witch trials that took place in the Massachusetts Bay Colony during the 1690s. John Proctor is a farmer who has an affair with his teenage servant, Abigail Williams. Later, when the witch trials begin, Abigail accuses John's wife, Elizabeth, of witchcraft. John is forced to confront his past and confess to adultery to save his wife's life. This article will focus on the quote of John Proctor confessing to adultery.
John Proctor's Confession
The quote of John Proctor's confession is one of the most powerful moments in the play. It shows his humanity and his struggle to do what is right. The quote is as follows:
"I have known her, sir. I have known her. In the proper sense of the word. I have known her."
This quote is spoken by John Proctor to Reverend Hale when he is asked if he knows Abigail Williams. John admits that he has had an affair with Abigail and that it was a mistake. He is ashamed of his actions and wants to make things right.
John Proctor's Struggle
John Proctor's confession is not an easy decision for him. He knows that by confessing to adultery, he will damage his reputation and his standing in the community. However, he also knows that if he doesn't confess, his wife will be executed for witchcraft. John's struggle is evident in the following quote:
"Because it is my name! Because I cannot have another in my life! Because I lie and sign myself to lies! Because I am not worth the dust on the feet of them that hang! How may I live without my name? I have given you my soul; leave me my name!"
This quote is spoken by John Proctor when he is asked to sign a confession admitting to witchcraft. He refuses to sign because he knows that it will be a lie and he cannot live with the shame of lying. He values his name and his reputation, and he would rather die than compromise his integrity.
John Proctor's Redemption
John Proctor's confession is a form of redemption for him. He admits his mistakes and takes responsibility for his actions. He is no longer the prideful and arrogant man he was at the beginning of the play. He has learned from his mistakes and has become a better person. The following quote shows John's redemption:
"I have three children—how may I teach them to walk like men in the world and I sold my friends?"
This quote is spoken by John Proctor when he admits to signing a false confession. He realizes that by signing the confession, he has betrayed his friends and his community. He wants to set things right and show his children that he is a man of honor and integrity.
Conclusion
The quote of John Proctor confessing to adultery is a powerful moment in the play "The Crucible". It shows John's struggle to do what is right and his redemption through his confession. The quote is a reminder that we are all human and we all make mistakes, but it is how we handle those mistakes that define us. John Proctor's confession is a testament to his character and his integrity.
