Examine the character of John Proctor, considering the ways in which Miller makes him a suitable protaganist for his views on society and morality

GCSE: English Literature

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Arthur Miller uses The Crucible to express his own views on what was happening in America at the time when anti-comunism was at a prominence. The same uproar which had effected Salem citizens in 1692 was effecting the United States but in this case, Actors were replacing Salem citizens, in the play Revered Paris role is representative to that of McCarthy and Communists were replacing witches. Miller's use of John Proctor shows interest in self reliant and strong individuals who don't allow themselves to get caught up in hysteria but thinks for himself and stands up for his values against all odds. Arthur Miller also deals with the same issues in previous plays he has written about individuals coping with the pressure of life and managing to mantain their dignity. Miller speaks through John Proctor in mentioning his views about the theocratic society, which saw moral and religious laws as one, although outspoken he stayed true to himself this leads to one of the many dramatic conflicts of the play. However, he doesn't just use John for his views he also expresses them through Elizabeth and Abigail to show his views toward the Puritan society and gender roles. Miller uses Elizabeth to represent the average puritan women, whilst Abigail is used to symbolise the role of the jealous woman who causes the corruption of the society. Miller plays a part in John's decision to choose Elizabeth instead of Abigail to show that the main character, who is looked at as being an honest Puritan role model would love the woman who symbolizes goodness in the society.
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