How does John Proctor's great dilemma change during the course of the play The Crucible by Arthur Miller?

Answer 1

John Proctor initially seeks to protect his secret, his affair with Abigail. As the play progresses, the internal conflict becomes overwhelming, and after his failed attempt to bring negative attention to Abigail, he comes to learn that even his admission to adultery is not enough to change the fate of the accused.

Despite John's indescretion, he is still a man of pride, and his refusal to make a false confession highlights the shift in his dilemma. In fact, because of his decision, he must suffer the same fate. In essence, his great dilemma expands from protecting himself and his reputation, or doing what he can to try to save the life of others and reveal Abigail at the same time