Analysis:

• This act explores the incongruence between individual morality and concern for one’s reputation.
• Judge Hathorne is not concerned with his reputation because he believes that the townspeople blindly accept the accuracy of his opinions, and that those who disagree with him are insignificant.
• Deputy Governor Danforth is more concerned with his reputation, fearful that if he heeds Parris’s requests and postpones the executions he will lose respect from the townspeople – “Postponement now speaks a floundering on my part”. He feels that a public questioning of the three to be hanged will call into question the guilt about those who have already been hanged. He steadfastly adheres to Massachusetts theocratic ruling, stating, “While I speak God’s law, I will not crack its voice with whimpering.” In Hathorne’s mind, admitting a mistake would show weakness of character.
• Reverend Hale returns to Salem after publicly denouncing the court, showing admirable integrity and resilience. He feels responsible for the death sentences given to Proctor, Rebecca Nurse and Martha Corey and feels the need to fight for them, telling Danforth he has returned to Salem because “there is blood on my head.” Unconcerned with his reputation, he values only God’s judgement.

John Proctor shows consistent integrity and honesty. He values his wife’s life over his own and care only for the opinions of God and Elizabeth. As he walks to the gallows, Elizabeth says, “he have his goodness now.”