Why proctor is the protoganist of the crucible

             In the Crucible, Arthur Miller is not clear about whom he intended to be true protagonist of the story. When reading the story, one comes across two major characters who are able to fit this role, John Proctor, and Reverend Hale. However if one truly comprehends each of their roles, it is quite apparent that John Proctor is most likely the true protagonist.
             In order to understand why John proctor is the authentic protagonist of the story, and why Hale is not, a definition of the word protagonist is necessary. A protagonist is essentially the central character of a story, mostly known as the good or main character. The author spends most of his time on him or her, and usually the character changes or evolves during the course of the novel. Moreover the protagonist is frequently the "hero" of the novel, and is usually in rivalry with a "foil," the protagonist's exact opposite, otherwise known as an antagonist.
             Reverend Hale can be mistaken for the protagonist of the story because he is in essence a highly reputable and good character. Hale is called to Salem, Massachusetts by Reverend Paris, Salem's power hungry reverend to check Paris's daughter Betty for witchcraft, and to look for any witchcraft is loose in Salem. While everyone in Salem is busily accusing everyone of witchcraft for no logical reason, Hale being the outsider is always able to see things clearly, and logically. Unlike the judges and other essential characters in the story Hale is interested in good and the truth only. He continuously disagrees with the court and makes his opinion heard. "Your honor, I cannot think you may judge the man on such evidence," Hale tells the court when they ridiculously blame John proctor for being a witch. Later on Hale attacks the court uprightly, "I denounce this proceedings I quit the court." He does not attempt to blame people for witchcraft for his own selfish vengeance and ...

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