e cause.Defamation & SlanderAs the trial got underway, another factor emerged. The accused where publicly humiliated both by their fellow citizens and in the press. The names of the accused where posted in the Salaam and in the salaam press and throughout New England. They were cursed and ridiculed and even after the trials where suspended. Those who where not hanged where looked down upon for the rest of their lives. Their name was far more important to them then any wealth that was accumulated. This point was strongly pointed out by Proctor who as a final stand for his dignity refused to sign the confession that would set his wife and himself free. How may I live without my name? I have given you my sole; leave me my name! So valuable ones name that Proctor would rather die then be defamed.Beyond a Reasonable Doubt & the Right of AppealThe nineteen victims of the Salaam witch hunt where never given true Due Process as allowed by the constitution. The evidence against them did not come anywhere near Reasonable Doubt, they where convicted by allegations, rumor and non-truths. Part of this Due Process is the right to appeal. These folks where imprisoned for quite a period of time loosing their right to speedy trial. Maybe more importantly, upon conviction they were not allowed to appeal the verdict. Within a short period of time following the convictions, the convicted where hanged. Sovereignty & ConspiracyAs the play climaxes, we are faced with one of the hidden truths, the justices so committed to the right outcome will do anything to maintain their judgment. In Act three, the chief justice is handed a petition from Proctor. The form contains a list of over 70 people begging for the end to the trials. Instead of looking at the document and supporting the sovereign of the people, he chooses to use it as a list of future indictments. Knowing that the community is in favor of ending the insanity, the justices choose to u...
