John Proctor: Hero or Stooge?

A hero is defined as a person who has distinguished courage or ability, admired for their brave deeds and noble qualities. John Proctor definitely shows these characteristics. Most people would consider him to be a stooge because he had an affair with Abigail and set the whole witchcraft trial in motion but, what they don’t understand is that everyone has flaws. Despite the fact that he cheated on his wife Elizabeth, and that he doesn’t attend church that often, he was a good man. He stood up for what he believed in and was a leader in his community. He told Abigail that he no longer wants anything to do with her, which lets us know that he regrets what he did. He feels guilty for cheating on Elizabeth, which is why he confesses at the end of the play. He knows that he has broken one of the ten commandments, and he must pay for his sin, one way or another. He was willing to confess of witchcraft, knowing he had nothing to do with it, just for the sake of his marriage and soon to be family. Although he bailed out on signing the document, he did it for a good cause. He wanted to save his name. even though he had sinned, he didn’t want to die with a bad reputation, especially since he had a child on the way. He wanted to be remembered as a good, courageous man who was a leader in his community, and in my opinion, he did just that! 

There goes the neighborhood!

In my opinion, the term “There goes the neighborhood” can be looked at in both a negative and positive way. When a person uses this phrase, they might refer to the disapproval of a newcomer who sets some example for change in the environment. They would be saying that their current social system is being taken from them before their eyes. This phrase can also be looked at as a good change for the neighborhood. The community might not approve of the current system in place, and be happy that a change is coming.

New arrivals aren’t always a bad thing, but in the case of the Native Americans and the Spaniards, they were. Columbus and his men came to the USA in search of claiming new land. They stripped the Native people of their cultures and religion. They forced them to convert to Christianity or they were killed. They brought over new crops that would eventually replace the old ones. In addition to taking the Native peoples land, they treated them poorly. They portrayed them to be evil people, when they were nothing but welcoming. On Columbus’ first trip to America, he treated them with respect, only to return and  take their land, gold, and enslave them. The Native Americans would be able to say, “There goes the neighborhood!”

ME!!!

                    Hi! My name is Karmyn Doughty, but some people call Sasha. I am 15 and will 16 shortly, in October to  be exact. At times I can have a bubbly personality and at others, I can be really laid back. I am outgoing and love to meet new people. I am not very good at sitting still for long periods of time, but I try. Although I am not good at that, I am good at sports. I play for the Sophomore basketball team here at Whitney Young. I also participate in Track and Field. I am currently the 4th best high jumper in the city and the only sophomore. I also take dance. Yes, I am very busy!
                    I have one younger sister and one older brother. My brother is my best friend! I don't have a lot of responsibility at home because I am never there. I live on the west side of Chicago with my mom and siblings. No, I am not scared of living on the west side. I have lived in the same neighborhood all my life. I actually thank my side of town for making me the person I am today!
                    All in all, I am a great, bubbly, and athletic person who loves to meet new people!