Abigail's desire is a complex and multifaceted one, influenced by her age, social standing, and the historical context of the Salem Witch Trials.
Here are some key aspects of her desire:
1. Revenge:
- Abigail harbors deep resentment towards Elizabeth Proctor, who dismissed her as a servant and fired her from her position.
- This resentment stems from a desire for power and recognition, which she feels Elizabeth has denied her.
- This desire for revenge manifests in her accusations against Elizabeth, aiming to destroy her reputation and social standing.
2. Love and Attention:
- Abigail is deeply infatuated with John Proctor, who is married to Elizabeth.
- She desires his love and attention, hoping to break free from her current social constraints and find a fulfilling relationship.
- This desire is fueled by her youthful naivety and her yearning for a sense of belonging and validation.
3. Social Advancement:
- Abigail's desire for social advancement is evident in her manipulations and accusations.
- She uses her position of power within the community, fueled by the fear of witchcraft, to gain influence and control.
- This desire stems from her desire to escape her current social standing as a servant and achieve a position of respect and authority.
4. Power and Control:
- Abigail's actions throughout the play demonstrate a desire for power and control over others.
- She uses her accusations and manipulations to influence the community and manipulate the course of events.
- This desire for power is driven by her ambition and her desire to be recognized and feared.
While Abigail's desire is complex and driven by multiple motivations, her actions ultimately reveal a deep-seated desire for revenge, love, social advancement, and power.
