The theme of betrayal is a very important theme in the book, The Crucible, is vague, but evident. Mainly betrayal is seen through Abigail and John Proctor, but is also elsewhere through the background of the book, and in a historical aspect (the numerous accusations).
Betrayal is a vague theme, but important nonetheless. In Salem of 1692, the people were bent on greed and hate on each other even if they were friends or acquaintances. As this being the historical aspect of the play, this theme of betrayal gives a broader view of what happened in Salem in 1692. This aspect shows that the greed of the people in Salem was so monstrous, that the population would accuse even friends to gain land or social status. The conflicts and incidents between John Proctor and Abigail Williams gives a view in the literal sense as well as a deeper look into the play and the witch trial in general.
The conflict between Proctor and Abigail is the most important conflict in this theme of betrayal. The conflict began before the book even started when John committed adultery with Abigail, and they both told each other and promised to speak nothing of the matter. Later in the book, John speaks of the matter, therefore betraying Abigail. Then Abigail accuses Elizabeth Proctor, John's wife. This was a major example of betrayal. Each of them (John and Abigail) betrayed each other's trust and broke their promises, thus betraying each other and supporting this theme.
Through the hysteria, betrayal in the book became much more common between the accused through greed and hate. In conclusion, the theme of betrayal is a very important theme in the book as well as the historical aspect of the play.
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