- Distant from His Family: John is initially portrayed as distant from his wife, Elizabeth. He is emotionally reserved, and their marriage is strained.
- Moral Ambivalence: John's moral compass is ambiguous. While he is considered an upstanding citizen, he has had an affair with Abigail Williams, which complicates his role in the Salem witch trials.
- Haunted by Guilt: John is haunted by guilt over his past actions, particularly his affair, and this internal conflict contributes to his complex character.
- Respected but Flawed: Although he is respected in the community, John's flaws, such as his affair and pride, make him a more relatable and human figure.
At the End of the Play:
- Moral Growth: John undergoes a significant moral growth throughout the play. He evolves from being a flawed but respected citizen to a man of principle and courage.
- Dedication to Truth: John's commitment to the truth becomes evident as he stands up against Abigail and the false accusations of witchcraft, even at the risk of his own life.
- Willingness to Sacrifice: In his final act, John chooses to be hanged instead of falsely confessing to witchcraft, a decision that demonstrates his strength and integrity.
- Symbol of Courage: John's willingness to face death rather than compromise his principles transforms him into a symbol of courage and righteousness in the face of injustice.
By the end of the play, John Proctor emerges as a more robust and morally developed character. His journey from moral ambivalence to self-sacrifice solidifies his position as a central figure representing the themes of honesty, integrity, and the pursuit of justice in a society plagued by fear, superstition, and manipulation.