1. Reputation and Resentment: Abigail played a significant role in accusing innocent people of witchcraft, leading to the unjust execution of several individuals. Her actions created considerable resentment among the community members who hold her responsible for the tragic events. As a result, many people are unwilling to hire or associate with her.
2. Guilt and Fear: Abigail herself suffers from guilt and fear due to her involvement in the false accusations. She is aware that the community views her with suspicion and distrust. This internal turmoil may hinder her ability to present herself confidently in job interviews or maintain stable employment.
3. Moral Disapproval: The people of Salem deeply value religious principles and moral values. Abigail's past behavior, including engaging in witchcraft and engaging in illicit activities with John Proctor, goes against the strict moral standards of the Puritan society. This moral disapproval further contributes to Abigail's difficulty in securing work.
4. Unwillingness to Forget: The community finds it challenging to forget or forgive the damage caused by Abigail's actions. Even though the witch trials have ended and Reverend Parris has tried to foster reconciliation, the pain and loss suffered by many individuals still linger in the collective memory of the town. This unwillingness to move forward creates obstacles for Abigail's attempts to rebuild her life and find gainful employment.
These reasons collectively contribute to Abigail's inability to find work in Salem, making it difficult for her to reintegrate into the community.