Why does John Proctor refuse to accuse Rebecca Nurse of witchcraft?

John Proctor's refusal to accuse Rebecca Nurse of witchcraft stems from his deep-seated belief in her innocence. Throughout Arthur Miller's "The Crucible," Rebecca Nurse is portrayed as a paragon of virtue and morality within the community. Proctor, who is grappling with his own sense of guilt and the moral implications of the hysteria surrounding the Salem witch trials, recognizes that Rebecca embodies the qualities of goodness and integrity that stand in stark contrast to the chaotic accusations swirling around them.

Proctor's acknowledgment of Rebecca's innocence highlights a key theme of the play: the importance of individual conscience and integrity in the face of societal pressure and fear. He understands that accusing an innocent person would not only betray Rebecca but also further entrench the wrongful persecution that has gripped Salem. This moral stance is part of Proctor’s broader struggle in the narrative, as he ultimately strives to uphold truth and justice despite the overarching climate of fear and falsehood that pervades the town.