Final answer:
In the play 'The Crucible', John Proctor is both supported and opposed by different characters. Hale is initially against him but later becomes more supportive, while Parris, Danforth, and Cheever are against him. These character stances add tension to the play.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the play 'The Crucible', written by Arthur Miller, John Proctor is a central character and his stance on various issues leads to different characters being for or against him. In terms of the characters mentioned, here is their stance:
- Hale: Initially, Reverend Hale is against John Proctor in the beginning of the play. He views Proctor skeptically and believes that he may have been influenced by witchcraft. However, as the play progresses, Hale begins to see the truth and sympathizes with Proctor, ultimately becoming more supportive of him.
- Parris: Reverend Parris is mainly against John Proctor throughout the play. He is concerned with his own reputation and sees Proctor's defiance as a threat to his authority. Parris also believes in the witchcraft hysteria and is not willing to question the accusations made against Proctor.
- Danforth: Judge Danforth is against John Proctor. He is a staunch supporter of the witch trials and believes in the guilt of those accused. Danforth sees Proctor as a threat to the authority of the court and is not willing to consider any evidence that could prove Proctor's innocence.
- Cheever: As the clerk of the court in Salem, Cheever follows the orders of the court and is expected to be neutral. However, he tends to lean towards being against John Proctor. Cheever plays a role in the arrest and interrogation of Proctor and is generally unsympathetic towards him.
In conclusion, Hale can be considered both for and against John Proctor, Parris and Danforth are against him, and Cheever leans towards being against him. These character stances contribute to the conflicts and tensions in the play.