Act one

Proctor believes Parris' outward show of piety to be disingenuous and despises his consistent attempts to bully the community by instilling fear in its members. In fact, Proctor claims that his poor attendance at church is due in part to Parris himself.

Proctor says, "I have trouble enough without I come five mile to hear him preach only hellfire and bloody damnation. Take it to heart, Mr. Parris. There are many others who stay away from church these days because you hardly ever mention God anymore."

Proctor also believes that Parris is more concerned with the acquisition of money and things than he is in caring for his parishioners.