Theme of Loyalty in The Crucible Essay Example

“Loyalty means nothing unless it has at its heart the absolute principle of self-sacrifice” -Woodrow Wilson. Often in literature, this principle is exemplified by characters who symbolize loyalty and nobility. The Crucible demonstrates how loyalty includes personal sacrifice, shown through Elizabeth's perjury, John Proctor’s resiliency, and Giles Corey’s Death. 

Elizabeth’s perjury in the court displays the sacrifice of one’s pride to remain loyal. Throughout the book, we see that Elizabeth highly esteems her moral sensibility. When Hale questions her about engaging with the devil, she responds with “I cannot think the Devil may own a woman’s soul, Mr. Hale, when she keeps an upright way, as I have. I am a good woman, I know it…” (Miller 70).  When the court scene arises, it is surprising to the reader that Elizabeth lies, due to her commitment to integrity. Miller’s choice to develop her character this way gives weight to her actions in court. When asked if her husband is an adulterer, Elizabeth denies it, and defends Proctor by saying “My husband-is a goodly man, sir” (113). Proctor’s act of lechery obstructs Elizabeth’s virtuous lifestyle. Despite being given the opportunity to expose him, she chooses to praise Proctor’s character in court. In the interest of protecting her husband, Elizabeth lies in court, sacrificing her dignity and standing in the community.

John Proctor also defies the court system. In the jail scene, his actions symbolize loyalty in face of personal risk. Danforth interrogates Proctor, asking whether he saw Salem people with the devil. Despite intense pressure, Proctor says “I speak my own sins; I cannot judge another. Crying out, with hatred: I have no tongue for it” (141). By refusing to state names, Proctor puts his life on the line. His resilience shows that he values integrity over self-preservation.As well as risking his life, Proctor risks leaving his family behind. He states “I have three children-how may I teach them to walk like men in the world, and I sold my friends?” (143). This quote shows the reader the importance of family to Proctor.  Therefore, his prioritization of loyalty over raising his sons is profound. 

Giles Corey exhibits great commitment to his family and values through surrendering his life. During Elizabeth’s visit to the jail, she informs John Proctor of Giles Corey’s death. She describes the event: “He would not answer aye or nay to his indictment; for if he denied the charge they’d hang him surely, and auction out his property...And so his sons will have his farm” (135). Following the arrest of his wife, Giles Corey recognizes the corruption in Salem. In opposition, he gave his own life instead of submitting to the court system. Elizabeth continues by saying “Great stones they lay upon his chest until he plead aye or nay. With a tender smile for the old man: They say he give them but two words “More weight,” he says. And died” (135). The stones laid on Giles Corey represent the societal pressure being forced on him at that moment. By giving into that weight, he is refusing to obey the court, remaining faithful to his cause and his family. 

The Crucible reveals the harrowing fate of those who have integrity in the face of corruption, shown through acts of nobility such as Elizabeth’s perjury, John Proctor’s resiliency, and Giles Corey’s death. These characters prioritized loyalty to their values and people over self-preservation.