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Danforth: Do you mean to deny this confession when you are free? Proctor: I mean to deny nothing! Danforth: Then explain to me, Mr. Proctor, why you will not let - Proctor: [With the cry of his whole soul] Because it is my name! Because I cannot have another in my life! Because I lie and sign myself to lies! Because I am not worth the dust on the feet of them that hang! How may I live without my name? I have given you my soul; leave me my name!

Arthur Miller#94

TruthIdentityDignityIntegrityConfessionSacrifice

About this quote

What does it mean?
Proctor refuses to falsely confess, asserting that his integrity and identity are worth more than his life.
In plain terms
He will not sign a lie to save himself because his name matters.
What can you take from it?
Integrity is more valuable than a life built on lies.

Where it applies

  • moral dilemmas
  • interrogation
  • standing up for beliefs

Putting it to work

  • refuse to lie
  • protect your reputation
  • value truth over safety

Questions to consider

  • What is your name worth?
  • When do you choose truth over safety?

Another view

Some might argue survival is more important than reputation.

More from Arthur Miller

  1. John, I counted myself so plain, so poorly made, no honest love could come to me! Suspicion kissed you when I did; I never knew how I should say my love. It we…

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  2. I do think I see some shred of goodness in John Proctor. Not enough to weave a banner with, but white enough to keep it from such dogs. Give them no tear! Tear…

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  3. It is mistaken law that leads you to sacrifice. Life, woman, life is God's most precious gift; no principle, however glorious, may justify the taking of it. I …

    Permalink to quote #92

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