Examples Of Sacrifice In The Crucible

Throughout all of history, many people have made sacrifices to restore the social order. The Crucible by Arthur Miller is a fictional work based on historical events, therefore it makes logical sense that it is filled with sacrifice. Giles Corey surrenders his life to stay loyal to and save a friend’s life. Elizabeth Proctor gives up her squeaky clean and truthful reputation to try and save John Proctor’s life. However, John Proctor sacrifices his life anyway, but not in the same way or for the same reason Giles Corey does. Giles Corey, Elizabeth Proctor, and John Proctor’s sacrifices are necessary to restore the social order. Giles Corey gives his life and it is a necessity that he does. For one thing, giving up his life shows men are understanding and smart. Giles understands that if he gives up the name of the man who is his informant, he essentially dooms the man. A point often overlooked is that this act shows immense loyalty. During the witch trials, in real life and in The
The present time, John believes himself a bad and unholy man. He has an affair with Abigail Williams and regrets it everyday of his life. “My honesty is broke, Elizabeth; I am no good man” (Miller IV 482). In order to understand the severity of this, one must first understand adultery is a hanging offense. To explain, marriage is sacred and it is against the major religion to commit adultery. Both parties are hanged and their names lay in ruins and shambles for the rest of time. When John gives his life, he earns redemption in not only his, but also in his wife’s eyes. By tearing up his confession, he chooses the path of God and absolutely refuses to give up one more ounce of himself. Finally, he believes himself a good man. When John is taken away Elizabeth says “he have his goodness now. God forbid I take it from him” (Miller IV 782)! All things considered, in order to restore the social order, John must forfeit his