Which character is primarily responsible for the escalation of the witch trials?

Abigail Williams is primarily responsible for the escalation of the witch trials due to her manipulative and deceitful nature. Throughout the play, she is driven by her desire for power and her obsession with John Proctor, which leads her to make false accusations against others in the community. Her actions catalyze the widespread hysteria; by feigning possession and accusing others of witchcraft, she not only diverts attention away from her own wrongdoings but also instigates panic among the townspeople, resulting in a rapidly growing community of suspicion and fear.

Abigail's role is crucial as she exploits the vulnerabilities of those around her, knowing that societal fears can be harnessed for her advantage. Her ability to influence the other girls and manipulate the court proceedings showcases her pivotal role in the trials' escalation, transforming personal grievances into a communal crisis that ultimately affects the entire town. This combination of personal motives and social dynamics makes her the central figure in the tragic unfolding of events related to the witch trials.