What was Thomas Putnam's motivation?

Thomas Putnam's motivation in "The Crucible" primarily revolves around gaining land. Throughout the play, he manipulates the witch trials for his own financial and personal advantage. Putnam sees the chaos of the trials as an opportunity to accuse his neighbors, a strategy designed to eliminate competition for land that he covets. By fomenting fear and perpetuating the hysteria, he positions himself to acquire properties from those who are convicted and executed. This pursuit of land reflects the broader themes of greed and ambition, showing how personal motivations can lead to the tragedy unfolding in Salem.

While saving his family name, seeking revenge, and settling disputes do play roles in the motivations of other characters in the play, for Putnam, the tangible goal of acquiring land serves as his driving force, leading him to exploit the trials for his gain.