"The crucible" by Arthur Miller. Act 4 Analysis. "What Is Your Final Impression of Proctor?"

In the play, "the crucible", Proctor is viewed as a hero, with a fatal flaw. Proctor's flaw coupled with his pride and righteousness results in his ultimate downfall. However, John Proctor leaves the play, not a sinner but a hero in the eyes of the audience. Through out the play, Proctor's character is refined through his suffering, self-judgment and moral conflict and this brings out the true heroic traits in him. He may have lost a battle against his society and its authority in the court, but he has won a conflict between his mind and his soul. Although he displays qualities such as courage, tenacity, honor and honesty, which are common to most heroes, it is Proctor's sacrifice in order to save his name, his principles and to put a stop to the senseless witch-trials, that ultimately makes him a hero.…