In Arthur Miller's play "The Crucible," the conflict between John Proctor and Thomas Putnam revolves around several key issues, including land disputes and the wider hysteria surrounding the witch trials.
1. Land Disputes: One of the central points of contention between Proctor and Putnam is about land ownership. Putnam is an opportunistic character who seeks to use the witch trials to his advantage, intending to acquire land from those who have been accused and found guilty of witchcraft. He is somewhat manipulative, encouraging his daughter to accuse others in order to further his own financial interests.
2. Church Attendance: Proctor’s reluctance to attend church regularly is another issue. Proctor is critical of Reverend Parris, believing him to be more concerned with his own reputation and wealth than the spiritual well-being of the community. This disdain for Parris leads Proctor to stay away from church, which Putnam and others in the community view as a sign of Proctor's moral failing.
3. Personal Grievances: On a personal level, Putnam is aware of Proctor's extramarital affair with Abigail Williams, which adds another dimension to their conflict. Putnam’s attitude and accusations are loaded with personal animosity, underlining the tensions between the two men.
Overall, Proctor and Putnam's argument reflects broader themes in "The Crucible," such as greed, reputation, and the consequences of the witch trials on personal relationships and community dynamics.
1 answer