"The crucible" by Arthur Miller. Act 4 analysis. "What is your final impression of Proctor?"

At the end of Act four in Arthur Miller's allegorical tale, 'The crucible', the play reaches its final and conclusive climax. John Proctor is forced by his conscience, his reason and the authority to reach a decision. On this decision balances his life, his reputation and his soul. The audience and Proctor's own conscience will either brand him a coward or a hero depending on this single choice. Ultimately, he chooses the path of the …

…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.