In The Crucible, what does John Proctor value more than his life?

• A. Wealth
• B. Integrity
• C. Power
• D. Reputation

Answer: (B)

Moral integrity is what this question tests—the idea that staying true to one’s conscience can matter more than staying alive. In The Crucible, John Proctor wrestles with guilt and the hysteria around witchcraft, but when faced with signing a false confession to save his life, he recognizes that doing so would be a lie and would betray who he truly is. He values truth, honesty, and the trust he has built with himself and others, all of which are embodied in his name. Choosing to die rather than live with a falsehood shows that preserving his integrity—the honesty of his character—takes precedence over mere survival or public image. This moment underlines the play’s theme that moral courage and personal truth are more enduring than life itself.

Weighing the other options, wealth and power aren’t what drive him, and while reputation matters, it is the integrity behind the name that governs his decision.