1. Mary Warren's Confession: Mary Warren, one of the primary accusers, experiences a moment of clarity and confesses to her deception regarding the supposed witchery. She reveals that Abigail Williams, not the accused individuals, was the one acting deceitfully. This revelation casts doubt on the validity of the accusations and exposes the underlying motivations of Abigail and her associates. Readers begin to question the integrity and credibility of the trials.
2. Abigail's Manipulation Exposed: Abigail's true nature is further exposed when she attempts to manipulate the situation and maintain control over the accusations. She accuses Mary Warren of being bewitched and tries to discredit her testimony. Abigail's manipulation tactics underscore her malevolent intentions and highlight the power dynamics at play within the community. Readers come to understand that the accusations are being driven by personal vendettas and not genuine concern for witchcraft.
3. Proctor's Resentment: John Proctor, a respected and morally upright citizen, expresses his frustration and resentment toward the proceedings. He challenges the authority of Reverend Hale and the court's methods, pointing out the lack of concrete evidence and the potential harm being done to innocent individuals. Proctor's principled stand highlights the injustice of the situation and further erodes the reader's trust in the fairness of the trials.
4. Giles Corey's Resistance: Giles Corey, an elderly farmer, symbolizes the growing opposition to the accusations and the determination to resist injustice. By refusing to enter a plea during his trial, Corey chooses a painful death over submitting to the court's authority. His act of defiance demonstrates the extent of the community's discontent and the growing recognition that the trials have become a travesty of justice.
5. Reverend Hale's Doubts: Reverend Hale, initially convinced of the veracity of the accusations, begins to question his own judgment as he encounters conflicting testimonies and discrepancies in the evidence. Hale's doubts further undermine the legitimacy of the trials and challenge the readers' belief in the certainty of the proceedings.
Overall, the events in Act Three contribute to a significant shift in readers' perception of the situation. The revelations about Abigail's manipulations, the exposure of Proctor's resentment, Giles Corey's act of resistance, and Reverend Hale's growing doubts all work together to erode trust in the fairness and accuracy of the witch trials. Readers begin to sympathize with the accused and question the motives and actions of those driving the prosecution.