I would want to argue that the central conflict that is
resolved during the course of this excellent play is the conflict between John and his
wife, Elizabeth. In the final act, when John and Elizabeth are given time to spend
together having been separated and jailed for three months, they are able to finally
resolve the differences that they have. After Elizabeth confesses her role in their
division, note how she counsels John:
Do what you will. But let none be your judge.
There be no higher judge under Heaven than Proctor is! Forgive me, forgive me, John--I
never knew such goodness in the
world.
With these final words
it is clear that their love for each other is resurrected and their acceptance of each
other is likewise re-established. Elizabeth's final words as John goes off to be hung,
"He have his goodness now. God forbid I take it from him!" speaks of an amazing pride
and love, indicating the healing of the breach between them.
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