During the court proceedings in The Crucible, many subjects and emotions come up. Even though most of them are hysteria, chaos and hypocrisy, some characters have the idea of integrity and courage behind their actions. For example Mary Warren and Proctor show incredible courage for opposing the court to protect the people accused. Giles Corey and Rev. Hale sacrificed their good name to ensure justice in court.
The most obvious and dramatic sacrifice was made by John Proctor. In order to discredit Abigail's testimony he had to plead guilty to the sin of adultery. In the strict, religion-soaked culture of the time admitting such a crime was damaging to the reputation. Knowing this fact, Proctor still confessed to save the lives of his wife and other people accused. This shows how he overcame his pride evident in the previous acts and tried to take on the guilt his wife faces. Unfortunately his desperate confession was far too late to have an effect on the power struggle.
Before Proctor's confession, another unsuccessful effort was made by Mary Warren to discredit Abigail. Mary finally admitted to being just a part of a make belief game that her and other girls were playing. She admitted that she never saw any spirits or talked with the devil and that she was just going along with the other girls. This act of courage would be beneficial discrediting Abigail's confession only if Mary was a strong person who could insist on her opinion. Due to her weak character, she crumples under the pressure that Danforth puts on her when asked to faint. .