Reputation

The significant passage I chose this week is said by Proctor who was defending his name, “Because it is my name! Because I cannot have another in my life! Because I lie and sign myself to lies! Because I am not worth the dust on the feet of them that hang! How may I live without my name? I have given you my soul; leave my name!”—Act 4, pg 133

The last sentence of this “speech” was the one that caught my eye, “I have given you my soul; leave my name!” This quote here reveals to us that Proctor’s reputation is far superior than his own soul. Throughout the book there has been an overriding theme of reputation. Many in the town were sincerely concerned with how others viewed them. We can see this with both Parris and Abigail. Parris was concerned that others would condemn him if they were to find out his relatives were in touch with the devil. Abigail was concerned that Goody Proctor was “blackening” her name in town because of her affair with John. However, the one who struggles with reputation the most is John Proctor. John even verbally admitted to dealing with the devil, but would not have it posted upon the church. He didn’t want others to see his name as a shameful thing. He has prided himself on his honesty and if they “blacken” his name, there will be nothing left of him.

We talked in class how honesty led to the downfall of Proctor and this is true. He couldn’t have his name associated with so many lies in front of all the townspeople. Therefore, he gave up his life in the name of reputation. I would agree with Proctor if he gave up his life for a legitimate reason such as Goody Nurse, for truly believing in God. But to give up your life because of fear of a ruined reputation is ridiculous. I had once viewed Proctor as an admirable man, but now I see him as weak.