Tragic Hero In The Crucible

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Hiral Patel 10-15-11 English H Tragic Hero In the play, The Crucible, by Arthur Miller, John Proctor fits the classic Greek definition of a tragic hero. Aristotle defined a tragic hero as a noble person that goes from a state of fortune and happiness to a state of utter misery. The character’s tragic flaw causes this change. He also stated that witnessing the downfall of the character triggered an emotional release, which left the audience feeling relieved because they have empathized with the character, but not upset because the downfall was the character’s own doing. John Proctor is a strong character that represents these qualities. Not only does he unfortunately fall to desolation, but also his character captures the sympathy and pity from the audience or readers. In some ways, John Proctor is a admirable man. His good quality was his honesty. His honest personality is first witnessed when he expresses some of his true feelings and affection toward his wife inside their humble home. Two quotes found early in Act Two further illustrate this point. “I mean to please you Elizabeth” (p. 50) he later goes on to say, “ I think you’re sad again. Are you?” (p. 51) These two quotes taken best exemplify Proctor’s loving emotions toward his wife Elizabeth. Also, John Proctor is surprisingly sensitive and thoughtful. When he asks his wife if she is saddened he displays concern for her well-being. He wants nothing more than for his dear wife to feel loved and he is willing to do whatever it takes to make her feel that way. He always spoke good about his wife. For example, when Elizabeth was accused of witchcraft, John said, “My wife cannot lie, I have paid much to learn it sir.” (p.111) John Proctor's major flaw was his great pride in his name. Pride is a sin. John's honor and good name is what kept him from confessing to his sin of adultery, which would have most

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