The Crucible Characters

Front

Who is John Proctor?

Back

A local farmer who lives just outside of town and had sinned by cheating on his wife.

Front

Who is Judge Danforth?

Back

The Deputy Governor of Massachusetts and the presiding judge at the witch trials, convinced he is doing right in rooting out witchcraft.

Front

Who is Herrick?

Back

The marshal of Salem.

Front

Who is Betty Parris?

Back

Reverend Parris's ten-year-old daughter whose illness fuels the first rumors of witchcraft.

Front

Who is Ezekiel Cheever?

Back

A man from Salem who acts as clerk of the court during the witch trials, upright and determined to do his duty for justice.

Front

What is the significance of John Proctor's character?

Back

He represents the struggle between personal integrity and societal pressure.

Front

What role does Judge Danforth play in the witch trials?

Back

He embodies the authority of the court and the dangers of rigid adherence to the law.

Front

What does Herrick symbolize in the play?

Back

He symbolizes the law and order in Salem, but also the moral ambiguity of the trials.

Front

What is the role of Betty Parris in the story?

Back

Her illness is a catalyst for the witch trials, highlighting the theme of hysteria.

Front

What does Ezekiel Cheever's character represent?

Back

He represents the conflict between justice and the corrupt nature of the court.