Final answer:
Reverend Samuel Parris's motives for wanting the sparing of Rebecca Nurse, Martha Corey, and John Proctor during the Salem Witch Trials likely revolved around self-preservation and the concern for societal order rather than genuine care for their souls.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question refers to the complex character of Reverend Samuel Parris during the Salem Witch Trials, who initially spearheaded the witchcraft accusations. Addressing whether Parris cares about the souls of Rebecca Nurse, Martha Corey, and John Proctor, it's clear that Parris's motivations are multifaceted. While he may have been concerned for their spiritual well-being early on, as the trials progressed and the possibility of punishment for high-profile community members loomed, Parris's desire for their sparing likely grew out of self-preservation and fear of repercussions if such prominent figures were executed.
Parris may have realized that the hysteria had gone too far and that the executions would reflect poorly on him, possibly leading to unrest or threats to his own position within the community. His appeal to spare them may have been a strategic move to mitigate the crisis and reduce the societal disruption that the trials were causing. Thus, Parris's motivations for wanting them spared could be interpreted as less about the care for their souls and more about the practical implications for himself and the community.