ACT IV, SCENE 5

We see the depth of Hale's disillusionment and disgust with
himself when he pleads with Elizabeth to get Proctor to confess:

Beware, Goody Proctor-cleave to no faith when faith brings
blood.... Life, woman, life is God's most precious gift; no
principle, however glorious, may justify the taking of it.

Here is another speech that looks like a good candidate for
"author's thematic statement." And it's spoken by the man who's
most like us.

Besides, it's a useless subject to dispute. Elizabeth has more
pressing business on her mind than theological arguments. She
must see her husband one last time. She has something to tell
him.

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