1. Revenge: Abigail holds a grudge against John Proctor, a respected man in Salem, for spurning her advances and breaking their illicit affair. She wants to ruin his reputation and punish him for rejecting her.
2. Power and Influence: Abigail craves power and influence in the Puritan community of Salem. She sees the witch trials as an opportunity to gain control and authority by accusing innocent people of witchcraft.
3. Security and Social Standing: Abigail's family has a troubled past, and she seeks acceptance and security within the community. By being a central figure in the witch trials, she believes she can establish a sense of belonging and improve her social standing.
4. Love and Attention: Despite her manipulative and vindictive nature, Abigail also desires love and attention. She feels drawn to John Proctor and wants him to reciprocate her feelings, even though she knows he is married.
5. Escape from Reality: Abigail's involvement in the witch trials allows her to escape the harsh realities of her life and the hypocrisy of the Puritan society she lives in. She finds a sense of empowerment and validation in the accusations she makes.
As the play progresses, Abigail's desires become increasingly evident, and her actions lead to devastating consequences for many innocent individuals in Salem. Her motivations play a crucial role in the unfolding drama and the exploration of themes such as power, manipulation, and the dangers of mass hysteria.