Understanding Proctor's Decision in "The Crucible"

Why is Proctor’s third son not baptized?

He says he sees no light of God so his song will not be baptized

Answer:

Proctor's third son in 'The Crucible' is not baptized because Proctor has lost faith in the church, especially Reverend Parris, due to the hypocrisy he perceives within the Salem community.

In Arthur Miller's play The Crucible, the decision of John Proctor, a central character, to not baptize his third son is a pivotal moment that illustrates his internal conflict with the church and its representatives in Salem.

Proctor's feelings of disillusionment towards the church are rooted in his perception of Reverend Parris as a self-serving and unspiritual figure rather than a true servant of God. This skepticism towards the church's authority leads Proctor to reject Parris' involvement in the sacred ritual of baptizing his child.

Furthermore, Proctor's refusal to have his son baptized signifies his personal rebellion against the church's influence and his assertion of individual conscience over institutionalized religion. This conflict between personal beliefs and the demands of the church is a central theme in The Crucible and reflects the broader tension between spiritual faith and moral autonomy.