Here are the key elements of John Proctor's internal conflict:
1. Moral Dilemma: Proctor is torn between confessing to witchcraft, which he knows would save his life, and protecting his personal integrity and the truth. He understands that admitting to a false crime would be a betrayal of his own beliefs and would perpetuate the injustice that has overtaken Salem.
2. Guilt and Shame: Proctor's affair with Abigail Williams, which occurred during his wife Elizabeth's absence, weighs heavily on his conscience. He feels profound guilt for his infidelity, which becomes intertwined with his internal struggle during the witch trials.
3. Desire for Truth and Justice: Despite the personal risks involved, Proctor feels compelled to stand up for what he knows to be true and just. He is willing to risk his reputation, his family's well-being, and even his own life in order to expose the false accusations and bring justice to the innocent.
4. Fear of Implicating Others: Proctor is torn between protecting himself and his family and exposing the truth about Abigail Williams and the other accusers. He fears that revealing the truth could endanger not only himself but also those who have supported him, such as Mary Warren.
5. Conflict with Authority: Proctor's internal conflict also extends to his strained relationship with the authority figures in Salem, particularly Judge Danforth and Reverend Parris. He questions their motives and methods and is disillusioned by their willingness to condemn innocent individuals based on spectral evidence.
As the play progresses, Proctor's internal conflict intensifies, reaching its peak during his trial. He must choose between saving himself by submitting to the court's demands or sacrificing his principles and speaking out against the injustice, knowing full well that his actions could lead to his demise.