John Proctor: Hero or Stooge?

John Proctor starts out the play as a "social hero" in Salem. Even though he isn't a textbook Puritan, he is well liked in the town because he is viewed as an honest, honorable man. Proctor isn't afraid to speak his mind, which attracts an unofficial following of people who look up to him as an aspirational figure.

Like all heroes, John Proctor had a fatal flaw: lust. His attraction to his young maid lead to a not-so-secret affair with Abigail Williams, the reverend's teenage niece. His momentary inability to not get caught up in his emotions and the moment gives Abigail a spark of hope that they can be together, unintentionally starting the talk of witchcraft in Salem after Abby drinks a charm to kill his wife.

John's priorities are tested when his own wife is accused of witchcraft and brought to trial before the town. In the middle of the play, John is faced with the decision to either save his wife (and potentially other women convicted of witchcraft) or save his reputation and keep the affair a secret. John finally decides to admit to his affair with Abigail after he thinks the trials are going too far and are putting too many innocent people's lives on the line.

John ends the play as the tragic hero of the witch trials. Convicted himself of witchcraft, he refuses to give a false confession and is sentenced to be hung. John's ability to keep to his word and stick to his morals is truly honorable and heroic, especially because he knew he could save his own life if he accused someone else.vJohn's personal integrity shows and validates the strength of his faith and his morals, both of which where tried multiple times in the play.