Final answer:
Parris was very deceptive when he decided to lie, a behavior indicating dishonesty for personal gain, often central to themes of deception in literature.
Step-by-step explanation:
Parris was very deceptive when he decided to lie about what he saw in the woods. This statement suggests that Parris was intentionally dishonest, concealing the truth for his own purposes. In literature, characters that demonstrate such behavior often contribute to the theme of deception, which can be a central element in narratives involving mystery, societal pressures, or personal internal conflicts. For example, in the provided excerpts, characters show various degrees of credulity and moral ambiguity, navigating through situations that challenge their integrity and perception of reality.