“Is the accuser always holy now? Were they born this morning as clean as God’s fingers? I’ll tell you what’s walking Salem—vengeance is walking Salem. We are what we always were in Salem, but now the little crazy children are jangling the keys of the kingdom, and common vengeance writes law!” (77)- John Proctor
- In this quote, John Proctor has boldly challenged Hale’s reasoning behind the accusations of innocent women. Throughout the previous sections of the book, Hale has come across as extremely intellectual and reasonable. He seems to be trustworthy because of his knowledge gained from his books. This quickly disappears when John brings up the valid point that those pointing fingers are certainly not perfect themselves. The accusers are clearly taking their newly gained power and using it to their own advantage. Also, it is evident that John Proctor is the most rational during this chaos and is not afraid to voice his opinion.
Was Hale’s visit planned considering the time of night it was and how some others had come to search the Proctor house?
“My wife will never die for me! I will bring your guts into your mouth but that goodness will not die for me” (80)- John Proctor
- This quote reflects back on John Proctor’s adulterous act. Many times before, we have seen John’s guilt and shame manifest itself through his defensive comments and arguments with Elizabeth. This quote is another type of outward display of resentment he has for having an affair. John acknowledges that he made a mistake that has led to great disorder and is certainly not willing to have Elizabeth pay for his faults. He is prepared to take drastic measures in order for that “goodness” to not be hanged for his wrongdoing.
Will John Proctor tell the truth about his affair in order to spare the lives of several innocent women, including his wife?
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