1. Conflict with Abigail Williams: Abigail is a young woman who accuses John Proctor's wife, Elizabeth, of witchcraft. John knows that Abigail is lying and tries to expose her, but he faces challenges in doing so due to Abigail's influence and the prevailing hysteria surrounding witchcraft accusations in the community.
2. Conflict with the Court and Authority: The court in Salem, led by Judge Danforth, is biased and eager to convict people of witchcraft. John Proctor tries to reason with the court and provide evidence of Abigail's deception, but his efforts are met with resistance and hostility. The conflict between John and the court represents a clash between individual conscience and oppressive authority.
3. Internal Conflict: John Proctor grapples with his past actions and moral choices. He had an affair with Abigail in the past and feels guilt and shame about it. This internal conflict adds complexity to his character and contributes to his sense of isolation and despair.
4. The Truth vs. Reputation: John Proctor faces the dilemma of choosing between revealing the truth about Abigail's lies, which could potentially save innocent lives, and protecting his reputation and family. The conflict arises from the fact that speaking out could lead to accusations against him and endanger his loved ones.
5. Conflict with the Community: John Proctor's stance against the witchcraft trials and his defense of the accused put him at odds with the majority of the community. He becomes an outcast and faces isolation and hostility from his neighbors. This conflict highlights the dangers of mass hysteria and the erosion of individual rights in a society consumed by fear and prejudice.
Ultimately, John Proctor's conflicts lead to his tragic downfall, as he is unable to overcome the forces of superstition, power dynamics, and communal fear that drive the Salem witch trials.