Final answer:
In 'The Crucible,' Thomas Putnam is viewed as a bitter man, which reveals the nuanced and negative perception of his character in the village.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of Arthur Miller's play The Crucible, Thomas Putnam is generally perceived by the village not as a knowledgeable man or a holy man, but rather as a bitter man. His character is known for holding grudges and for his aggressive pursuit of vengeance against those he feels have wronged him. Putnam's wealth and influence could suggest that he is a respected man by status, but his actions and the underlying motivations presented in the play paint a more nuanced and generally negative portrait of his place in the community.