Pride in The Crucible by Arthur Miller

Arthur Miller's play, The Crucible, explores the destructive power of pride through the lens of the Salem witch trials. Set in 1692, the play depicts a community consumed by paranoia and hysteria, fueled by individuals' prideful desire for power, reputation, and control. This essay will delve into the theme of pride as depicted in The Crucible, analyzing its consequences on both individual characters and the community as a whole. By examining the various manifestations of pride in the play, we can gain a deeper understanding of the destructive nature of this deadly sin.

One of the most striking examples of pride in The Crucible is seen in Judge Danforth, the deputy governor of Massachusetts. Danforth's pride is rooted in his authority, as he believes himself to be the ultimate judge of truth and justice. This pride blinds him to the possibility of any mistakes or false accusations made during the trials. He is unwilling to admit any wrongdoing, even when presented with evidence that challenges the validity of the accusations.

For instance, when presented with the petition signed by the accused individuals' neighbors testifying to their good character, Danforth dismisses it, arrogantly stating, "The pure in heart need no lawyers" (Miller 74). This statement highlights Danforth's belief in his own infallibility and his refusal to consider alternative viewpoints. His pride in his position of power prevents him from acknowledging the possibility of his own mistakes, ultimately leading to the tragic consequences of the play.

Furthermore, Danforth's pride also manifests in his refusal to listen to those who challenge his authority. When John Proctor attempts to expose the truth about the girls' deceit and manipulation, Danforth dismisses his claims, stating, "Proctor, I have shown you my authority every moment, and still you challenge me" (Miller 95). This refusal to admit any wrongdoing or consider alternative perspectives demonstrates the dangerous consequences of excessive pride and its impact on those in positions of authority.

John Proctor serves as another example of the destructive power of pride in The Crucible. Proctor's pride is closely tied to his reputation within the community. As a respected farmer, he prides himself on his integrity and moral character. However, when his affair with Abigail Williams is revealed, Proctor's pride prevents him from confessing his adultery openly.

This pride is evident when Reverend Hale urges Proctor to sign a written confession to save his life. Proctor hesitates, refusing to tarnish his name by admitting to a sin that would ruin his reputation. He exclaims, "Because it is my name! Because I cannot have another in my life!" (Miller 143). Proctor's pride in his name and reputation ultimately leads to his demise, as he chooses to die with his integrity intact rather than compromise his pride.

Moreover, Proctor's pride also influences his interactions with others, particularly his wife, Elizabeth. Despite Elizabeth's forgiveness and understanding, Proctor struggles to forgive himself and let go of his guilt. His pride prevents him from fully reconciling with his wife and accepting her forgiveness, causing further turmoil in their relationship.

Beyond individual characters, The Crucible also explores the destructive power of collective pride and its contribution to mass hysteria. The entire community of Salem becomes consumed by pride, each individual seeking to maintain their reputation and social standing. This collective pride creates an environment where any deviation from the norm is seen as a threat.

For example, when Abigail Williams and the other girls begin accusing individuals of witchcraft, the community's pride blinds them to the truth. They are so determined to protect their reputation and maintain the illusion of a pious community that they readily accept the accusations without question. This collective pride fuels the hysteria and leads to the unjust persecution of innocent individuals.

Furthermore, the pride of the community is also evident in their reluctance to admit any mistakes or wrongdoing. When doubts start to arise regarding the legitimacy of the witch trials, the community's pride prevents them from acknowledging the possibility of error. This refusal to question their own actions ultimately results in the tragic deaths of many innocent people.

In conclusion, Arthur Miller's The Crucible serves as a cautionary tale about the destructive power of pride. Through the characters of Judge Danforth and John Proctor, as well as the collective pride of the community, Miller highlights the devastating consequences of excessive pride. The play demonstrates how pride blinds individuals to the truth, prevents them from admitting mistakes, and leads to the unjust persecution of innocent people. By examining the theme of pride in The Crucible, we gain a deeper understanding of the dangers of this deadly sin and its potential to destroy both individuals and communities.

As we reflect on The Crucible, it serves as a reminder of the importance of humility and self-reflection. The play's portrayal of pride encourages us to examine our own motivations and actions, guarding against the pitfalls of excessive pride. By acknowledging our own fallibility and being open to alternative perspectives, we can avoid the tragic consequences that befell the characters in The Crucible. The play's broader implications remind us of the dangers of unchecked pride and the importance of fostering a community built on empathy, understanding, and humility.

Bibliography

Miller, Arthur. The Crucible. Penguin Classics, 2003.