The Crucible is an example of a tragedy, which means that it includes a tragic hero, as well as tragic elements. A tragedy is a play that shows a downfall or death of the tragic hero. The tragic hero is usually a hero of some type and an outstanding person. These heroes unfortunately have a tragic flaw. The tragic flaw at first seems like a small, unimportant quality possessed by the character, but as time goes on, the flaw either gets worse or becomes the cause of terrible things. The hero's tragic flaw leads to their downfall.
John Proctor is the tragic hero of the play. He demonstrates characteristics that allow people to like him and feel bad for him. He also has what every tragic hero needs, a tragic flaw, which is his conscience. It haunts him with thoughts of the affair he had with Abigail and how his wife might die because of his mistakes. What causes John’s downfall is his quilt for what he had done and how he can never change it. Even when he admits his sins, he is arrested and accused for being a witch.
Convicted of being a witch and facing death, John is given the opportunity to save his life by signing a confession that will be displayed on the local church door. It is at this moment that John redeems himself, he refuses to sign his name and he will not dishonor his name or those of his fellow prisoners. His death will serve as a testimony to the truth and with this action, he redeems himself. As John is led to the gallows, his Elizabeth his wife, refuses to try to change his mind stating. The last line of the play is stated by her and she says, “He have his goodness now. God forbid I take it from him!”
2006-11-02
15:57:54
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pinkladii4life
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