1. Character and motivations: Abigail is self-centered, driven by desire, passion, and her pursuit of power. She seeks to eliminate those she perceives as obstacles, including Goody Proctor, thereby highlighting her ambition and cunning nature. In contrast, Elizabeth is selfless and guided by integrity and unwavering loyalty. She is truthful, honorable, and seeks justice, making her a moral compass within the play.
2. Relationship with John Proctor: Abigail and Elizabeth have contrasting relationships with John Proctor. Abigail is driven by her unrequited love for John, leading her to falsely accuse others of witchcraft to remove obstacles from her path. Elizabeth, on the other hand, represents a stable, loving, and faithful relationship with John, portraying a strong bond built on trust and understanding.
3. Social standing: Abigail is a young, orphaned girl who comes from a lower social status in the community. Her lack of social standing makes her vulnerable to manipulation and exploitation. Elizabeth, on the other hand, comes from a respected and esteemed family, enjoying a higher social status. This difference impacts their influence, credibility, and how others perceive them within the community.
4. Portrayal of womanhood: Abigail epitomizes a stereotype of a tempting, manipulative, and vengeful woman. Her character reinforces certain gender biases prevalent during the time. In contrast, Elizabeth challenges these stereotypical notions, embodying strength, resilience, and moral fortitude, thereby representing a more empowered and independent vision of womanhood.
5. Interaction with others: Abigail is manipulative, skilled in using her charm to control and exploit those around her. She has a strong influence on the young girls in Salem, leading them astray and fueling the hysteria. In contrast, Elizabeth is honest and straightforward, often serving as a voice of truth and reason in a society driven by fear and deceit.
6. Impact on the community: Abigail's actions have severe consequences for the community of Salem, contributing to the escalating hysteria and false accusations. Her selfish desires lead to innocent lives lost. Conversely, Elizabeth's principled stand, even in the face of adversity, becomes a beacon of hope and morality, encouraging others to fight against injustice.
Through the contrast between Abigail and Elizabeth, Miller explores the complexities of human nature, the power dynamics within a community, and the moral dilemmas that arise in the midst of fear and societal pressures.