Who is Abigail Williams in "The Crucible"?

Abigail Williams serves as the main antagonist in "The Crucible," driving much of the play's conflict through her actions and motivations. Her character is pivotal in instigating the witch trials as she falsely accuses others, including Elizabeth Proctor, in a bid to eliminate her rivals and pursue her own desires, particularly her obsession with John Proctor.

Abigail's manipulation and deceit lay the groundwork for the chaos that ensues, showcasing her willingness to sacrifice the lives and reputations of others to achieve her goals. This makes her a central figure in the story, embodying themes of power, jealousy, and moral corruption. Her role as an antagonist is further emphasized by her lack of remorse for the consequences of her actions and her ability to sway the other girls and the town, leading to the tragic outcomes of the trials.