John Proctor - Character Profile Flashcards

Study Notes

Character Attributes of John Proctor

Proctor embodies "quiet confidence," earning him respect and inducing fear, evident from characters' reactions in Act 1.
His character is recognized for having "great weight" in Salem, showcasing his influence and respect among peers.
Demonstrates bravery with the declaration, "I will fall like an ocean on that court," emphasizing his willingness to confront authority.

Attitude Towards Authority

Exhibits bluntness through the statement, "I like not the smell of this authority," reflecting his disdain for oppressive figures in the community.
Shows a hot-tempered nature with the exclamation, "Damn the Deputy Governor! Out of my house!" indicating his impulsive reactions to authority figures.
Challenges societal norms by telling Putnam people vote "by name not acreage," showcasing his willingness to stand up against corruption.

Internal Conflict and Guilt

Proctor's struggle with guilt is highlighted by saying, "I cannot mount the gibbet like a saint," revealing his deep inner turmoil over his past actions.
Expresses self-doubt, feeling like a "kind of fraud," underlining his internal battles throughout the narrative.
Recognizes some "shred of goodness" in himself by Act 4, indicating a journey toward self-acceptance despite his flaws.

Complexity of Character

Represents the theme of identity, revealing a multifaceted character who grapples with morality and societal expectations.
He is not purely good or purely bad, contributing to his realism and relatability as a character.
Displays duality through violent outbursts, such as threatening Mary Warren, yet also showcasing kindness by protecting her in court.

Relationship with Religion and Morality

Respects God but critiques the church's authority, living by a personal moral code rather than strictly adhering to biblical rules.
Proctor's identity reflects the struggle against oppressive societal structures, embodying the tension of individualism in a conformist community.

Moral Dilemmas and Responsibility

Faces tough choices, particularly concerning his wife's safety, as expressed in "My wife will never die for me!" demonstrating his prioritization of family over self-preservation.
Initially hesitates to expose Abigail's lies, affected by fear of personal exposure, yet ultimately embraces a moral responsibility to those unjustly condemned.
His hardest decision revolves around confessing to save his own life; ultimately, he values self-respect over survival by tearing up his confession.

Theme of Individual vs. Society

Proctor's experiences underscore the broader theme of individual rights versus communal pressure; he navigates the treacherous waters of public opinion.
His character arc illustrates the conflict between personal conscience and societal expectations, paralleling historical events like McCarthyism, suggesting Miller's commentary on the dangers of extremism.

Description

Explore the character of John Proctor through these flashcards. Each card delves into specific traits and perceptions of Proctor in Arthur Miller's play. Understand why he is both respected and feared in Salem's society.