What ultimately happens to John Proctor by the end of the play?

By the end of "The Crucible," John Proctor faces a tragic conclusion as he is executed. This outcome is pivotal to the narrative and reflects the play's themes of integrity, guilt, and social hysteria. Proctor struggles with his own moral dilemmas throughout the play, particularly regarding his infidelity and the desire for redemption. When he is faced with the choice of confessing to witchcraft — a lie that would save his life but tarnish his already damaged reputation — he ultimately chooses to maintain his integrity.

His decision to refuse to falsely confess is emblematic of his character development; he transitions from a man burdened by guilt to one who seeks to assert his honor. By going to the gallows, Proctor not only reclaims his sense of self-respect but also stands against the injustice of the court and the mass hysteria consuming Salem. His execution serves as a commentary on the consequences of extremism and the importance of individual integrity in the face of societal pressure.