The Crucible
Reputation
Reputation is the main theme associated throughout The Crucible. The major fear that townspeople of Salem have is losing their reputation, since rumors circulate very quickly in such town. Reverend Parris is the first character that we are introduced to, who is mostly interested in gaining the reputation. When Betty was sick and Abigail was discovered dancing in the forest, he fears that people might link Betty’s sickness and Abigail’s behavior to witchcraft. He demands Abigail that "I (Parris) have fought here three long years to bend these stiff-necked people to me, and now, just now when some good respect is rising for me in the parish, you compromise my very character. I have given you a home, child. I have put clothes upon your back – now give me an upright answer. Your name in the town – it is entirely white, is it not?" (63-66). We can see how he is more worried on losing his name and position rather than the well-being of his daugther. John Proctor is another character who struggles for reputation. When his wife was taken to Salem due to Abigail’s accusation, he hesitates on going to the court to tell the truth, since his affair with Abigail must be said. Moreover, in Act 4, when Proctor was given a chance to falsely confess and save his life, he gives up his life for his name, saying “Because it is my name! Because I cannot have another in my life! Because I lie and sign myself to lies! Because I am not worth the dust on the feet of them that hang! How may I live without my name? I have given you my soul; leave me my name”(90).