The Crucible List of Characters

Francis Nurse Head of the Nurse family; Respected man in town. Tried to stop the trials by aiding John Proctor

Rebecca Nurse Very kind woman who is the Putnam’s midwife. They feel she is a witch because seven out of the eight of their children died at birth.

Reverend Parris Local minister. Discovers the girls dancing. Mainly responsible for the witch trials. A materialistic man, places gold candlesticks in the church.

Betty Parris Reverend Parris’ daughter, caught dancing and pretends to see spirits

Tituba Parris’ black slave who teaches the girls about spirits.

Abigail Williams Niece of Parris; a very emotionally strong person. Scares people into doing what she wants them to do. She leads the girls in the accusations. She accuses Elizabeth Proctor because she (Abigail) had an affair with John Proctor and feels he still has feelings for her. Without Elizabeth in the picture she feels they can have a relationship together.

The Putnams Wealthy land owners, holds many grudges in the town. Attributed the death of seven of their children to Rebecca Nurse.

Mary Warren Works for the Proctor’s. Gives the poppet (doll) to Mrs. Proctor, which leads to her accusation of being a witch. She was going to testify against the girls but then in the end she accuses John of being a witch.

John Proctor Well-known and respected in town. He opposes the expenditures of Reverend Parris in the church. Had an affair with Abigail.

Elizabeth Proctor John’s wife. Discovered and forgave him for his affair. Incapable of lying.

Reverend John Hale The minister who is called in to investigate the witch trials. At first he believes them, but later he returns to the town to try and stop the trials.

Deputy Governor Danforth The judge at the witch trials. Dedicated to removing all witches. Rules by the law and will not allow exceptions or anyone to try to undermine his court.