the scarlet letter by nathaniel hawthorne

The Scarlet The Scarlet LetterLetter

by Nathaniel by Nathaniel HawthorneHawthorne

NotesNotes

Major charactersMajor characters in in The The Scarlet LetterScarlet Letter

Hester Prynne

Arthur Dimmesdale

Roger Chillingworth

daughter

lover husb

and

Pearl

SymbolismSymbolism

The Scarlet Letter The Scarlet Letter is filled with is filled with symbolism. symbolism. Symbolism is when Symbolism is when one thing is used one thing is used to represent to represent something else. something else.

Darkness vs. LightDarkness vs. Light Sunshine seldom shines on Hester, Sunshine seldom shines on Hester,

but often on Pearl. Sunshine but often on Pearl. Sunshine represents goodness while the represents goodness while the darkness represents evil and hidden darkness represents evil and hidden sins. The forest is a dark and sins. The forest is a dark and forbiding place that the Puritans felt forbiding place that the Puritans felt was full of evil. This is the place was full of evil. This is the place where Hester and Arthur meet years where Hester and Arthur meet years after Pearl is born,and it is only there after Pearl is born,and it is only there that they can feel free enough to that they can feel free enough to express their long repressed feelings express their long repressed feelings for one another, for it is here that the for one another, for it is here that the rules of society cannot penetraterules of society cannot penetrate

The Sunlight Does Not Shine on The Sunlight Does Not Shine on HesterHester

““Mother,” said little Pearl, “the sunshine Mother,” said little Pearl, “the sunshine does not love you. It runs away and hides does not love you. It runs away and hides itself, because it is afraid of something on itself, because it is afraid of something on your bosom. . . . It will not flee from me, your bosom. . . . It will not flee from me, for I wear nothing on my bosom yet!” for I wear nothing on my bosom yet!” “Nor ever will, my child, I hope,” said “Nor ever will, my child, I hope,” said Hester. Hester. “And why not, mother?” asked Pearl, “And why not, mother?” asked Pearl, stopping short. . . . “Will it not come of stopping short. . . . “Will it not come of its own accord, when I am a woman its own accord, when I am a woman grown?”grown?”

Dimmesdale Hides in the Dimmesdale Hides in the LightLight

It is only in the dark of night that It is only in the dark of night that Arthur Dimmesdale can allow Arthur Dimmesdale can allow himself to come out and "reveal" himself to come out and "reveal" his sin as he does in the dark of his sin as he does in the dark of night on the scaffold where night on the scaffold where Hester’s sin was revealed in the Hester’s sin was revealed in the light of day. light of day.

The Letter “A”The Letter “A”

The "A" represents adultery in the beginning of The "A" represents adultery in the beginning of the book. It is Hester's punishment for the book. It is Hester's punishment for committing sin. She wears it with stoic committing sin. She wears it with stoic endurance and embellishes it with gold endurance and embellishes it with gold threads until it becomes a thing of beauty. threads until it becomes a thing of beauty. Later in the novel, the town has forgotten Later in the novel, the town has forgotten Hester's original sin. Now the "A" is thought to Hester's original sin. Now the "A" is thought to represent "able" or "angel" . When the represent "able" or "angel" . When the meteor makes a phenomenal "A" in the night meteor makes a phenomenal "A" in the night sky, the town is in awe of its wonder. They sky, the town is in awe of its wonder. They think it must be "Angel" .think it must be "Angel" .

We may also associate it with “Alone” or We may also associate it with “Alone” or “Alienation”“Alienation”

The Rosebush by the Prison The Rosebush by the Prison DoorDoor

The prison is a place of despair The prison is a place of despair and doom, but the rose growing and doom, but the rose growing by the door represents the by the door represents the beauty and forgiveness of beauty and forgiveness of nature.nature.

Weeds and Poisonous plantsWeeds and Poisonous plants

The Rose at Governor The Rose at Governor Bellingham’s houseBellingham’s house

MeteorMeteor

As Dimmesdale stands on the scaffold with Hester As Dimmesdale stands on the scaffold with Hester and Pearl in Chapter XII, a meteor traces out an and Pearl in Chapter XII, a meteor traces out an “A” in the night sky. To Dimmesdale, the meteor “A” in the night sky. To Dimmesdale, the meteor implies that he should wear a mark of shame just implies that he should wear a mark of shame just as Hester does. The meteor is interpreted as Hester does. The meteor is interpreted differently by the rest of the community, which differently by the rest of the community, which thinks that it stands for “Angel” and marks thinks that it stands for “Angel” and marks Governor Winthrop’s entry into heaven. Governor Winthrop’s entry into heaven.

NamesNames

PearlPearl - Although Pearl is a complex - Although Pearl is a complex character, her primary function within the character, her primary function within the novel is as a symbol. Pearl is a sort of novel is as a symbol. Pearl is a sort of living version of her mother’s scarlet living version of her mother’s scarlet letter. She is the physical consequence of letter. She is the physical consequence of sexual sin.sexual sin.

Hester PrynneHester Prynne

The protagonist of the novel who is an English The protagonist of the novel who is an English woman and the wife of Roger Chillingworth. She is woman and the wife of Roger Chillingworth. She is tried and condemned for her sin of adultery with tried and condemned for her sin of adultery with Dimmesdale and charged to wear the scarlet letter, Dimmesdale and charged to wear the scarlet letter, "A", an indication of adultery, on the bosom of her "A", an indication of adultery, on the bosom of her gown forever. Even though she has a daughter out gown forever. Even though she has a daughter out of wedlock, she refuses to reveal who the father is. of wedlock, she refuses to reveal who the father is. As a young woman, her youthful beauty, luxuriant As a young woman, her youthful beauty, luxuriant hair, and excellent features are diminished by her hair, and excellent features are diminished by her self-effacing puritanical way of dressing. As an self-effacing puritanical way of dressing. As an older lady, she returns to Boston where she is older lady, she returns to Boston where she is finally accepted for her kindness and service. finally accepted for her kindness and service.

Arthur DimmesdaleArthur Dimmesdale

The young, handsome, and unmarried The young, handsome, and unmarried pastor of Hester's church. Apart from pastor of Hester's church. Apart from committing adultery with Hester, he is guilty committing adultery with Hester, he is guilty of hiding his sin. His intense suffering and of hiding his sin. His intense suffering and remorse, however, are reflected in his remorse, however, are reflected in his rundown physical appearance. He emerges rundown physical appearance. He emerges as the tragic figure of the novel around as the tragic figure of the novel around whom revolves the plot's suspense and on whom revolves the plot's suspense and on whom the reader's attention is centered. whom the reader's attention is centered. Thus, he is also considered a protagonist, Thus, he is also considered a protagonist, like Hester. like Hester.

Roger ChillingworthRoger Chillingworth

A scholarly physician who has sent his wife A scholarly physician who has sent his wife ahead of him to America. He fails to join ahead of him to America. He fails to join her quickly, for he is captured by Indians her quickly, for he is captured by Indians from whom he gathers a knowledge of from whom he gathers a knowledge of herbal medicine. He is an old, evil, vicious, herbal medicine. He is an old, evil, vicious, ugly, and deformed man. His diabolical ugly, and deformed man. His diabolical vengeance on Dimmesdale, while vengeance on Dimmesdale, while pretending to treat him, makes him the pretending to treat him, makes him the personification of evil. personification of evil.

PearlPearl

The beautiful daughter of Hester and The beautiful daughter of Hester and Dimmesdale. She is the living symbol of the Dimmesdale. She is the living symbol of the scarlet letter and has peculiar traits that scarlet letter and has peculiar traits that make her sometimes appear as a demon. make her sometimes appear as a demon. Her love for nature and freedom, her Her love for nature and freedom, her vivacious spirit, her alienation, her vivacious spirit, her alienation, her rebelliousness, her inquisitiveness, and her rebelliousness, her inquisitiveness, and her innocent but symbolic comments reveal her innocent but symbolic comments reveal her distinct personality. She is, however, a distinct personality. She is, however, a product of the difficult situation into which product of the difficult situation into which she is born. she is born.

PearlPearl

Pearls are formed in oysters when a Pearls are formed in oysters when a grain of sand slips inside and irritates grain of sand slips inside and irritates the oyster. The oyster covers the the oyster. The oyster covers the irritant and it becomes a thing of rare irritant and it becomes a thing of rare beauty. Just like a real pearl , Pearl in beauty. Just like a real pearl , Pearl in The Scarlet Letter is born of her The Scarlet Letter is born of her mother's shame and suffering , but mother's shame and suffering , but has become a precious, rare, and has become a precious, rare, and beautiful child.beautiful child.

The Main Themes of The Main Themes of The Scarlet LetterThe Scarlet Letter

Sin and its effect on the individualSin and its effect on the individual Hawthorne explores this by tracing the Hawthorne explores this by tracing the

consequences of different kinds of sin consequences of different kinds of sin on 3 different characters: Hester, on 3 different characters: Hester, Dimmesdale, and Chillingworth.Dimmesdale, and Chillingworth.

The consequence of sin is alienation, The consequence of sin is alienation, and as their sins differ, so do the kinds and as their sins differ, so do the kinds of alienation that result from them.of alienation that result from them.

Cont.Cont. Hester’s isolation is physical – the townspeople Hester’s isolation is physical – the townspeople

shun her. There is a magic circle of ignominy shun her. There is a magic circle of ignominy caused by her scarlet letter. However, the scarlet caused by her scarlet letter. However, the scarlet letter is the means to her redemption. letter is the means to her redemption. Hawthorne believes that no reconciliation with Hawthorne believes that no reconciliation with God, society, or self can happen without God, society, or self can happen without confessing one’s sin and coming to terms with it. confessing one’s sin and coming to terms with it. “Be true! Be true! Show freely to the world, if not “Be true! Be true! Show freely to the world, if not your worst, yet some trait whereby the worst can your worst, yet some trait whereby the worst can be inferred.”be inferred.”

Hester’s pregnancy makes her sin known and she Hester’s pregnancy makes her sin known and she works out her redemption slowly and painfully in works out her redemption slowly and painfully in public view. The A changes from Adultery to public view. The A changes from Adultery to Able.Able.

Cont. Cont.

Dimmesdale suffers agonizing guilt Dimmesdale suffers agonizing guilt and self-loathingand self-loathing

The admiration of his parishioners The admiration of his parishioners wounds him because of his sense of wounds him because of his sense of unworthiness and alienation from God. unworthiness and alienation from God.

His redemption is possible only when His redemption is possible only when he publicly confesses his sins on the he publicly confesses his sins on the scaffold (and not at night when no one scaffold (and not at night when no one was there to hear). was there to hear).

Cont.Cont.

Chillingworth’s sin lies in his single-minded Chillingworth’s sin lies in his single-minded pursuit of vengeance – in violating “in cold blood, pursuit of vengeance – in violating “in cold blood, the sanctity of the human heart.” the sanctity of the human heart.”

His obsession transforms him into a fiend.His obsession transforms him into a fiend. His isolation is represented by the dread his dark His isolation is represented by the dread his dark

and stooping posture inspire in the children of the and stooping posture inspire in the children of the town (remember Pearl sees him as a Devil). town (remember Pearl sees him as a Devil).

His secret sin, which finally destroys him, is His secret sin, which finally destroys him, is unpardonable because he himself is unable to unpardonable because he himself is unable to forgive.forgive.

Another ThemeAnother Theme

Another theme is that Sin brings special knowledge Another theme is that Sin brings special knowledge or insights to the sinner (just like eating the or insights to the sinner (just like eating the forbidden apple gave insight to Adam and Eve)forbidden apple gave insight to Adam and Eve)

Hester sees the sins of othersHester sees the sins of others Dimmesdale in able to look into the hearts of his Dimmesdale in able to look into the hearts of his

parishionersparishioners Chillingworth has insights into Dimmesdale’s soulChillingworth has insights into Dimmesdale’s soul Mistress Hibbins (the resident witch) intuitively Mistress Hibbins (the resident witch) intuitively

sees into the minister’s soulsees into the minister’s soul Pearl, who isn’t a sinner but who is born as the Pearl, who isn’t a sinner but who is born as the

result of sin, can figure out that Dimmesdale is result of sin, can figure out that Dimmesdale is his father without being told.his father without being told.

The Structure of the NovelThe Structure of the Novel

The novel is symmetrical. Very The novel is symmetrical. Very carefully planned out. carefully planned out.

The Three Main ScenesThe Three Main Scenes

All take place on the scaffoldAll take place on the scaffold They underscore the unity of the They underscore the unity of the

novelnovel They bring together the four major They bring together the four major

characters and show their changing characters and show their changing circumstances throughout the novel.circumstances throughout the novel.

ThemesThemes

Themes are universal ideas that an Themes are universal ideas that an author wants to express through author wants to express through his/her writings.his/her writings.

A theme is not the “topic”, but rather A theme is not the “topic”, but rather an idea about the topic that an author an idea about the topic that an author wants to put forth. wants to put forth.

Themes can be expressed as a Themes can be expressed as a sentence: a universal statement that sentence: a universal statement that should apply beyond the story. should apply beyond the story.

Forgiveness and Forgiveness and RevengeRevenge

CHillingsworth seeks his revenge CHillingsworth seeks his revenge for Hester's adultery, but it for Hester's adultery, but it poisons his soul and destroys poisons his soul and destroys any happiness he might have any happiness he might have found. His only vindication found. His only vindication comes when he leaves his comes when he leaves his inheritance to little Pearl.inheritance to little Pearl.

Guilt and InnocenceGuilt and Innocence

Hester accepts her guilt and her Hester accepts her guilt and her punishment without complaint. punishment without complaint. Arthur Dimmesdale hides his guilt, Arthur Dimmesdale hides his guilt, and it destroys him from within. and it destroys him from within. He cannot bear what he has done, He cannot bear what he has done, but has not the courage to face his but has not the courage to face his sins. Pearl is the innocent product sins. Pearl is the innocent product of her parent's guilt and sin, but of her parent's guilt and sin, but she is innocent and beautiful. She she is innocent and beautiful. She grows up to live a life of luxury.grows up to live a life of luxury.

Truth and LiesTruth and Lies Arthur Dimmesdale cannot face his sin. He does not Arthur Dimmesdale cannot face his sin. He does not

have the courage to face his punishment. He secretly have the courage to face his punishment. He secretly carves the “A” into his chest in a vain attempt to carves the “A” into his chest in a vain attempt to punish himself. The real punishment is that which his punish himself. The real punishment is that which his own guilt and lies do to his soul. They destroy him own guilt and lies do to his soul. They destroy him from within. from within.

Hester accepts her punishment. She does not hide Hester accepts her punishment. She does not hide from it, and she is , at the end, vindicated because from it, and she is , at the end, vindicated because no one remembers her sin. no one remembers her sin.

Roger Chillingsworth hides his true identity. In so Roger Chillingsworth hides his true identity. In so doing, he becomes filled with bitterness, hatred, and doing, he becomes filled with bitterness, hatred, and evil. It is only when he leaves an inheritance to evil. It is only when he leaves an inheritance to little Pearl that the reader feels any sympathy little Pearl that the reader feels any sympathy toward him.toward him.

Be True Be True

Because both Chillingworth and Because both Chillingworth and Dimmesdale live a lie, they suffer Dimmesdale live a lie, they suffer

more than Hester, whose sin is more than Hester, whose sin is

known. known.

Hypocrisy Hypocrisy

The townspeople shun Hester and the The townspeople shun Hester and the children are forbidden to play with little children are forbidden to play with little Pearl. Yet they seek Hester's skills as a Pearl. Yet they seek Hester's skills as a seamstress, and they secretly envy the seamstress, and they secretly envy the beauty of the embellished "A" that adorns her beauty of the embellished "A" that adorns her clothing....adornment that they, as Puritans clothing....adornment that they, as Puritans of plain and simple lifestyle are forbidden to of plain and simple lifestyle are forbidden to wear. wear.

Arthur Dimmesdale enjoys the prestige of Arthur Dimmesdale enjoys the prestige of

being a well-respected minister, a man of being a well-respected minister, a man of God. Yet, he is the father of Hester's child, God. Yet, he is the father of Hester's child, the sinful adulterer the townspeople want the sinful adulterer the townspeople want Hester to name.Hester to name.

PridePride

It is Hester’s pride that helps her It is Hester’s pride that helps her survive . survive .

It is Arthur Dimmesdale’s pride It is Arthur Dimmesdale’s pride that leads to his destruction. that leads to his destruction.

It is Roger Chillingworth’s pride It is Roger Chillingworth’s pride that leads him to be a bitter, evil that leads him to be a bitter, evil person obsessed with person obsessed with vindictiveness.vindictiveness.

IronyIrony

Irony of situation : When we expect Irony of situation : When we expect one thing to happen, but the opposite one thing to happen, but the opposite happens instead.happens instead.

Verbal Irony: When someone says Verbal Irony: When someone says one thing, but actually means the one thing, but actually means the opposite.opposite.

Dramatic Irony: When the reader Dramatic Irony: When the reader knows something that the characters knows something that the characters in a story do not know. in a story do not know.

Dramatic Irony in Dramatic Irony in The Scarlet The Scarlet LetterLetter

The reader knows that Arthur The reader knows that Arthur Dimmesdale is Pearl’s father. The Dimmesdale is Pearl’s father. The townspeople do not know this.townspeople do not know this.

The reader knows that Roger The reader knows that Roger Chillingworth is Hester’s husband. Chillingworth is Hester’s husband. The townspeople do not know this. The townspeople do not know this.

Situational Irony in Situational Irony in The Scarlet The Scarlet LetterLetter

The symbol of Hester’s sin ( the The symbol of Hester’s sin ( the “A”) that could have destroyed “A”) that could have destroyed Hester has made her stronger Hester has made her stronger and envied by those who and envied by those who shunned her. shunned her.

Irony (cont.)Irony (cont.)

The "A" that Hester is forced to The "A" that Hester is forced to wear, and which she hates in the wear, and which she hates in the beginning, becomes a valued beginning, becomes a valued part of her identity. She even part of her identity. She even refuses to remove it when she no refuses to remove it when she no longer is required to wear it. longer is required to wear it. She panics when the town She panics when the town considers allowing her to remove considers allowing her to remove it.it.


The sin that Arthur Dimmesdale The sin that Arthur Dimmesdale hides because he is afraid it will hides because he is afraid it will destroy his reputation as the destroy his reputation as the revered minister ends up revered minister ends up destroying his very life.destroying his very life.


Pearl, who is shunned along with Pearl, who is shunned along with her mother, grows up to have all her mother, grows up to have all the luxuries that those who the luxuries that those who shunned her will never have.shunned her will never have.

Cont.Cont.Dimmesdale-Dimmesdale- A character so weak that only A character so weak that only

Hester’s love and his extreme Hester’s love and his extreme suffering lend him reality.suffering lend him reality.

Some consider him the protagonist Some consider him the protagonist because he is the tempted one, the because he is the tempted one, the one who is persecuted, and the one one who is persecuted, and the one whose confession climaxes the novelwhose confession climaxes the novel

Cont. Cont. Chillingworth – Chillingworth – Somewhat of a stock character (which Somewhat of a stock character (which

may take away from his believability)may take away from his believability) He does change in the novel (though we He does change in the novel (though we

never really see the scholar who was never really see the scholar who was “thoughtful of others, craving little for “thoughtful of others, craving little for himself”himself”

His change into the fiend that wants His change into the fiend that wants revenge is pDimmesdale of what causes revenge is pDimmesdale of what causes Hester to feel guiltHester to feel guilt

Cont. Cont.

Pearl – Pearl – The only character who suffers as a result The only character who suffers as a result

of a sin she didn’t have anything to do of a sin she didn’t have anything to do withwith

Symbolic in nature – is a living Symbolic in nature – is a living representation of Hester’s sin and is representation of Hester’s sin and is definitely pDimmesdale of her punishment definitely pDimmesdale of her punishment as well as her salvationas well as her salvation

Is finally humanized in the final chapter Is finally humanized in the final chapter when she shows grief at the death of when she shows grief at the death of Dimmesdale, her dad.Dimmesdale, her dad.

IronyIrony

Situational Irony – the fact that Situational Irony – the fact that Chillingworth, the wronged husband, Chillingworth, the wronged husband, whom might normally gain the sympathy whom might normally gain the sympathy of the reader, ends up being a fiend. He of the reader, ends up being a fiend. He is a physician, whose mission should be is a physician, whose mission should be to cure, and he affixes himself to to cure, and he affixes himself to Dimmesdale, who he eventually plans to Dimmesdale, who he eventually plans to make suffer for the rest of his days. It is make suffer for the rest of his days. It is also ironic that Dimmesdale, who is also ironic that Dimmesdale, who is agonized by guilt and self-hatred, ends agonized by guilt and self-hatred, ends up raising great heights at the pulpit.up raising great heights at the pulpit.

Cont. Cont. Dramatic Irony- occurs most often when Hester and Dramatic Irony- occurs most often when Hester and Dimmesdale meet in public and must Dimmesdale meet in public and must communicate in ways that the onlookers will not communicate in ways that the onlookers will not understand (ex. When Dimmesdale asks Hester understand (ex. When Dimmesdale asks Hester to reveal the father of her child)to reveal the father of her child)

Verbal Irony – Example would be when Hawthorne Verbal Irony – Example would be when Hawthorne accounts for the popularity of Hester’s accounts for the popularity of Hester’s needlework among the Puritans as follows: needlework among the Puritans as follows: “Vanity, by putting on…the garments that had “Vanity, by putting on…the garments that had been wrought by sinful hands.”been wrought by sinful hands.”

SymbolismSymbolism Some symbols keep the same significance Some symbols keep the same significance

throughout – the scaffold, which represents public throughout – the scaffold, which represents public notice, and weeds and unsightly vegetation which notice, and weeds and unsightly vegetation which stand for moral evil.stand for moral evil.

Others, like the forest, which represents both Others, like the forest, which represents both nature and the threatening powers of the Black nature and the threatening powers of the Black Man, are ambivalent.Man, are ambivalent.

The central symbol, the Scarlet Letter, does The central symbol, the Scarlet Letter, does change in meaning, as Hester works her way change in meaning, as Hester works her way towards absolution. towards absolution.

Chapter Chapter 11

NotesNotes

Chapter 1 - SummaryChapter 1 - Summary

This chapter sets the This chapter sets the scene (17scene (17thth c Boston) c Boston)

Drably dressed Drably dressed Puritans gathered in Puritans gathered in front of the prisonfront of the prison

In front of the prison In front of the prison is a growth of weeds, is a growth of weeds, and beside it grows a and beside it grows a wild rose bush.wild rose bush.

Chapter 1 – Analysis Chapter 1 – Analysis

The rust, decay, and ugliness The rust, decay, and ugliness foreshadow the gloom of the novel.foreshadow the gloom of the novel.

Two landmarks ---the prison & Two landmarks ---the prison & cemetery– point to themes of cemetery– point to themes of punishment & death.punishment & death.

Although the rose is beautiful, it is a Although the rose is beautiful, it is a striking contrast to everything else.striking contrast to everything else.

Chapter Chapter 22

NotesNotes


Puritans are gathered in front of the Puritans are gathered in front of the prison to witness a public punishment.prison to witness a public punishment.

Most of the women appear self-Most of the women appear self-righteous in discussing Hester Prynne’s righteous in discussing Hester Prynne’s sin.sin.

Proud & beautiful, Hester emerges Proud & beautiful, Hester emerges from the prison wearing an from the prison wearing an

elaborately embroidered elaborately embroidered

scarlet letter A on her dress.scarlet letter A on her dress. The A stands for adultery.The A stands for adultery.

Chapter 2 - SummaryChapter 2 - Summary Hester is carrying a three-month old Hester is carrying a three-month old

infant in her arms.infant in her arms. The crowd is unsympathetic as The crowd is unsympathetic as

Hester walks toward the scaffold of Hester walks toward the scaffold of the pillory.the pillory.


While standing on the pillory, Hester While standing on the pillory, Hester dreams of her past life in England dreams of her past life in England (with her father) and on the Continent (with her father) and on the Continent (with her “misshapen scholar” (with her “misshapen scholar” husband). husband).

Stern faces watch Hester.Stern faces watch Hester. Hester is painfully aware of her Hester is painfully aware of her

present position of shame and present position of shame and punishment.punishment.

Chapter 2 – AnalysisChapter 2 – Analysis

Pearl is the symbol of Hester’s sin.Pearl is the symbol of Hester’s sin. Roger Chillingworth (the misshapen Roger Chillingworth (the misshapen

scholar) is Hester’s legal husband.scholar) is Hester’s legal husband. Hawthorne reveals his critical Hawthorne reveals his critical

attitude toward Puritan society attitude toward Puritan society (probably due to his family (probably due to his family background).background).


The goodwives condemn Hester and The goodwives condemn Hester and suggest more violent torture. suggest more violent torture. Hawthorne objected to this type of Hawthorne objected to this type of attitude in early American Puritanism. attitude in early American Puritanism.

Hawthorne avoids over-generalizing Hawthorne avoids over-generalizing Puritans by including one character Puritans by including one character who is somewhat sympathetic toward who is somewhat sympathetic toward Hester.Hester.

This chapter is heavy in historical This chapter is heavy in historical narrative.narrative.

Chapter Chapter 33

NotesNotes


In this chapter, Hawthorne reveals that In this chapter, Hawthorne reveals that Hester was sent ahead from Europe by Hester was sent ahead from Europe by her husband.her husband.

Hester has been in Boston for two Hester has been in Boston for two years without any word from her years without any word from her husband.husband.

Because Hester was with child, she was Because Hester was with child, she was not executed for the sin of adultery.not executed for the sin of adultery.

Hester’s punishment is standing on the Hester’s punishment is standing on the scaffold for three hours & wear the scaffold for three hours & wear the symbolic letter for the rest of her life.symbolic letter for the rest of her life.


Hester’s husband encountered Hester’s husband encountered problems in crossing the Atlantic problems in crossing the Atlantic Ocean. At some point, he was held Ocean. At some point, he was held captive. These problems delayed captive. These problems delayed him from reaching Hester.him from reaching Hester.

Hester’s husband is upset that the Hester’s husband is upset that the baby’s father is not sharing in the baby’s father is not sharing in the public punishment.public punishment.


Hester dreads talking to her husband.Hester dreads talking to her husband. The Reverend Mr. John Wilson is The Reverend Mr. John Wilson is

Boston’s oldest and most famous Boston’s oldest and most famous minister.minister.

The young Reverend Mr. Arthur The young Reverend Mr. Arthur Dimmesdale’s voice tone reveals a Dimmesdale’s voice tone reveals a kindness toward Hester.kindness toward Hester.

Hester refuses to name the father of Hester refuses to name the father of her child.her child.

Pearl cries and screams.Pearl cries and screams.


Reverend Dimmesdale is the father Reverend Dimmesdale is the father of Pearl. This fact makes his of Pearl. This fact makes his passionate appeal one of the richest passionate appeal one of the richest passages of irony in the book (there passages of irony in the book (there is a strong undercurrent of personal is a strong undercurrent of personal meaning in Dimmesdale’s public meaning in Dimmesdale’s public remarks).remarks).

Chapter Chapter 44

NotesNotes

Chapter 4 - SummaryChapter 4 - Summary Back in the prison cell, Pearl convulses in Back in the prison cell, Pearl convulses in

pain.pain. Hester’s husband poses as a physician by Hester’s husband poses as a physician by

the name of Roger Chillingworth, and does the name of Roger Chillingworth, and does not reveal that he is married to Hester.not reveal that he is married to Hester.

Although fearful he will harm the baby, Although fearful he will harm the baby, Hester allows Chillingworth to give the Hester allows Chillingworth to give the baby medicine. baby medicine.

Still in fear, Hester accepts some sedative.Still in fear, Hester accepts some sedative.


The sedative calms Hester. The sedative calms Hester. Hester and her husband talk Hester and her husband talk

intimately and sympathetically---both intimately and sympathetically---both accept a measure of blame for the accept a measure of blame for the current situation.current situation.

Chillingworth does not want revenge Chillingworth does not want revenge against Hester; however, he wants to against Hester; however, he wants to know who violated his marriage.know who violated his marriage.


Since Hester is concealing the Since Hester is concealing the identity of her lover, Chillingworth identity of her lover, Chillingworth requests that Hester also keep her requests that Hester also keep her husband’s identity secret.husband’s identity secret.

Chillingworth promises not to take Chillingworth promises not to take the life or damage the reputation of the life or damage the reputation of her unknown lover (if Hester doesn’t her unknown lover (if Hester doesn’t give the name of her husband).give the name of her husband).

Chapter 4 - SummaryChapter 4 - Summary Chillingworth warns Hester if she fails Chillingworth warns Hester if she fails

to keep his identity secret, then he to keep his identity secret, then he will hurt Pearl’s father.will hurt Pearl’s father.


This is one of the more dramatic This is one of the more dramatic chapters of the book.chapters of the book.

Regarding the development of Regarding the development of Chillingworth, we see both what he Chillingworth, we see both what he has been and what he is to become.has been and what he is to become.

Chillingworth is a lonely, gentle Chillingworth is a lonely, gentle scholar who has been robbed of his scholar who has been robbed of his wife; however, he has an element of wife; however, he has an element of self-destruction in his grim self-destruction in his grim determination to discover the man determination to discover the man who has caused him offense. who has caused him offense.


Hester never pretended to love her Hester never pretended to love her husband.husband.

Hester does deeply love Pearl’s father.Hester does deeply love Pearl’s father. It is Hester’s concern for Dimmesdale It is Hester’s concern for Dimmesdale

(more than her sense of obliagation to (more than her sense of obliagation to Chillingworth) that persuades her to Chillingworth) that persuades her to swear to keep her husband’s secret. swear to keep her husband’s secret. *This promise will make Hester and *This promise will make Hester and her lover suffer later in the book.her lover suffer later in the book.

Chapter Chapter 55

NotesNotes

Chapter 5 - Chapter 5 - SummarySummary

After her imprisonment, After her imprisonment, Hester is free to leave Hester is free to leave Boston; however, she Boston; however, she moves into a small moves into a small thatched cottage on the thatched cottage on the outskirts of town.outskirts of town.

Hester supports herself Hester supports herself as a seamstress. Her as a seamstress. Her work is in demand for work is in demand for everything but wedding everything but wedding dresses.dresses.

Hester remains a social Hester remains a social outcast. She patiently outcast. She patiently takes abuse from the takes abuse from the townspeople.townspeople.

Chapter 5 – AnalysisChapter 5 – Analysis The primary function of this chapter is to The primary function of this chapter is to

show Hester undergoing penance. show Hester undergoing penance. Hester goes beyond the letter of the law– Hester goes beyond the letter of the law–

staying in Boston (atmosphere of torture) staying in Boston (atmosphere of torture) when she could leave.when she could leave.

Hester dresses in the coarsest and most Hester dresses in the coarsest and most somber attire when her natural taste is somber attire when her natural taste is for the rich and beautiful.for the rich and beautiful.

Despite Hester’s apparent humility and Despite Hester’s apparent humility and her refusal to strike back, she resents and her refusal to strike back, she resents and inwardly rebels against the viciousness of inwardly rebels against the viciousness of her Puritan persecutors.her Puritan persecutors.

Chapter Chapter 66

NotesNotes

Chapter 6 – Chapter 6 – NotesNotes

At age three, Pearl is At age three, Pearl is a physically beautiful, a physically beautiful, vigorous, and vigorous, and graceful little girl.graceful little girl.

Pearl has unusual Pearl has unusual depth of mind but an depth of mind but an uncontrollable, fiery uncontrollable, fiery passion (neither passion (neither threats or kindness of threats or kindness of Hester can control Hester can control this side of Pearl).this side of Pearl).

Hester makes rich, Hester makes rich, elaborate dresses for elaborate dresses for Pearl.Pearl.

Chapter 6 – NotesChapter 6 – Notes

Pearl’s mischief and disrespect for Pearl’s mischief and disrespect for authority remind Hester of her own authority remind Hester of her own sin of the passions.sin of the passions.

Hester names her daughter “Pearl” Hester names her daughter “Pearl” because she came at a “great price.”because she came at a “great price.”


Hester and Pearl rely on one another Hester and Pearl rely on one another because they are excluded from because they are excluded from “respectable” society.“respectable” society.

Pearl does Pearl does notnot try to make friends; rather, try to make friends; rather, she throws rocks and screams at the other she throws rocks and screams at the other children.children.

Pearl’s only companion in play is her Pearl’s only companion in play is her imagination—but even in her games of imagination—but even in her games of make-believe she never creates friends. make-believe she never creates friends. Pearl does create make-believe enemies Pearl does create make-believe enemies (Puritans) she plans to destroy.(Puritans) she plans to destroy.


The object that most captures Pearl’s The object that most captures Pearl’s attention is the scarlet letter on her attention is the scarlet letter on her mother’s dress.mother’s dress.

As an infant, Pearl grasped at the As an infant, Pearl grasped at the letter. As a child, Pearl threw wild letter. As a child, Pearl threw wild flowers at the letter.flowers at the letter.

Pearl denies having a Heavenly Pearl denies having a Heavenly Father and demands that Hester Father and demands that Hester explain where Pearl came from.explain where Pearl came from.

Chapter 6 -- AnalysisChapter 6 -- Analysis

Hester’s interpretation of Pearl’s Hester’s interpretation of Pearl’s behavior as almost supernatural or behavior as almost supernatural or fiendish takes place primarily in fiendish takes place primarily in Hester’s mind.Hester’s mind.

Hester deeply loves Pearl but cannot Hester deeply loves Pearl but cannot understand her and somewhat fears understand her and somewhat fears Pearl.Pearl.

Chapter Chapter 77

NotesNotes

Chapter 7 -- SummaryChapter 7 -- Summary

Hearing that influential citizens are going Hearing that influential citizens are going to take Pearl away from her, Hester goes to take Pearl away from her, Hester goes to Governor Bellingham’s mansion. to Governor Bellingham’s mansion.

Under the pretext of taking him gloves, Under the pretext of taking him gloves, Hester plans to plead for the right to keep Hester plans to plead for the right to keep her daughter.her daughter.

When she is taunted by a group of When she is taunted by a group of Puritan children, Pearl screams and Puritan children, Pearl screams and threatens the children.threatens the children.

Chapter 7 – Summary Chapter 7 – Summary

Leech is an archaic term for a Leech is an archaic term for a physician.physician.

Hester attempts to quiet Pearl who is Hester attempts to quiet Pearl who is crying and screaming for one of the crying and screaming for one of the red roses from the garden.red roses from the garden.

Chapter 7 -- Analysis Chapter 7 -- Analysis

The scarlet A is strengthen by two The scarlet A is strengthen by two striking variations: the magnified A in striking variations: the magnified A in the breastplate, and Pearl as a living the breastplate, and Pearl as a living version of the scarlet symbol.version of the scarlet symbol.

Chapter 8Chapter 8NotesNotes

Chapter 8 -- SummaryChapter 8 -- Summary The Governor is shocked by Pearl’s vain and The Governor is shocked by Pearl’s vain and

immodest costume. He doubts Hester’s immodest costume. He doubts Hester’s fitness to raise Pearl in a Christian way.fitness to raise Pearl in a Christian way.

The Governor instructs Reverend Wilson to The Governor instructs Reverend Wilson to test Pearl’s knowledge of religious items.test Pearl’s knowledge of religious items.

Although Hester has taught Pearl much Although Hester has taught Pearl much moremore

about religion than most about religion than most

three year olds, Pearl three year olds, Pearl

deliberately pretendsdeliberately pretends

ignorance. ignorance.


After a plea from Hester, Dimmesdale After a plea from Hester, Dimmesdale persuades the Governor and Wilson to persuades the Governor and Wilson to let Pearl remain with her mother (as a let Pearl remain with her mother (as a blessing from God & as a reminder of blessing from God & as a reminder of sin).sin).

Leaving the mansion, Mistress Hibbins Leaving the mansion, Mistress Hibbins (the governor’s sister) invites Hester (the governor’s sister) invites Hester to a midnight meeting of witches in to a midnight meeting of witches in the forest. Hester declines.the forest. Hester declines.

Chapter 8 AnalysisChapter 8 Analysis

For the first time in three years (since the For the first time in three years (since the scaffold) the four main characters are scaffold) the four main characters are together.together.

This chapter contains the first hints as to This chapter contains the first hints as to Dimmesdale being the father.Dimmesdale being the father.

Dimmesdale has been suffering with his Dimmesdale has been suffering with his concealed guilt.concealed guilt.

Chillingworth physically appears more Chillingworth physically appears more ugly, dark, and misshapen.ugly, dark, and misshapen.

Chapter 9 Chapter 9 NotesNotes

Chapter 9 SummaryChapter 9 Summary Some Puritans believe that it is as special Some Puritans believe that it is as special

act of Providence that Chillingworth has act of Providence that Chillingworth has arrived and can take care of Dimmesdale.arrived and can take care of Dimmesdale.

Dimmesdale and Chillingworth have Dimmesdale and Chillingworth have separate apartments in the same house.separate apartments in the same house.

Gradually, the townspeople become Gradually, the townspeople become suspicious of Chillingworth; however, they suspicious of Chillingworth; however, they have faith that Dimmesdale is strong have faith that Dimmesdale is strong enough to overcome his tormentor.enough to overcome his tormentor.

Chapter 9 – Analysis Chapter 9 – Analysis

For Dimmesdale, the relationship For Dimmesdale, the relationship with Chillingworth is dangerous.with Chillingworth is dangerous.

There is a Satanic turn in There is a Satanic turn in Chillingworth’s characterChillingworth’s character

Chapter Chapter 10 Notes10 Notes


Chillingworth is obsessed with Chillingworth is obsessed with discovering the truth.discovering the truth.

Chillingworth asks Dimmesdale why Chillingworth asks Dimmesdale why a man should be willing to carry a man should be willing to carry secret sins to the grave rather than secret sins to the grave rather than confessing them during his lifetime.confessing them during his lifetime.

Dimmesdale replies that most men Dimmesdale replies that most men dodo confess but that some men confess but that some men do do notnot because they would no longer be because they would no longer be able to do God’s work on earth.able to do God’s work on earth.


Chillingworth finds Dimmesdale Chillingworth finds Dimmesdale asleep in a chair. He pulls aside the asleep in a chair. He pulls aside the minister’s vestment (ceremonial minister’s vestment (ceremonial robe) and finds a letter A carved into robe) and finds a letter A carved into the skin. the skin.

Chillingworth experiences feelings of Chillingworth experiences feelings of wonder, joy, and horror.wonder, joy, and horror.

Chapter 10 AnalysisChapter 10 Analysis Chillingworth has become diabolical in his Chillingworth has become diabolical in his

determination. As seen in chapter ten, determination. As seen in chapter ten, this is the most vicious side of this is the most vicious side of Chillingworth; however, Hawthorne Chillingworth; however, Hawthorne reminds the reader that C had once been reminds the reader that C had once been kindly, pure, and upright. C did not kindly, pure, and upright. C did not choose a path of evil.choose a path of evil.

C is a victim of his need to seek the truth.C is a victim of his need to seek the truth. D is a victim of his own weakness.D is a victim of his own weakness. Dimmesdale is consumed with painful Dimmesdale is consumed with painful

inner suffering. He is wasting away from inner suffering. He is wasting away from the struggle with his soul.the struggle with his soul.

Chapter 11 -- SummaryChapter 11 -- Summary Knowing the secret, Chillingworth begins Knowing the secret, Chillingworth begins

his unrelenting torture of Dimmesdale.his unrelenting torture of Dimmesdale. Dimmesdale begins to abhor Dimmesdale begins to abhor

Chillingworth Dimmesdale tolerates Chillingworth Dimmesdale tolerates Chillingworth because he feels the dislike Chillingworth because he feels the dislike stems from an impurity in his own heart.stems from an impurity in his own heart.

Dimmesdale becomes more popular Dimmesdale becomes more popular among the congregation. D’s suffering among the congregation. D’s suffering allows him to sympathize with the sin and allows him to sympathize with the sin and suffering of others.suffering of others.

Chapter 11 -- SummaryChapter 11 -- Summary The misplaced adoration (from the The misplaced adoration (from the

congregation) tortures Dimmesdale congregation) tortures Dimmesdale and he wants to confess.and he wants to confess.

Incapable of the one act necessary for Incapable of the one act necessary for his salvation, Dimmesdale substitutes his salvation, Dimmesdale substitutes self-punishment (often by beating self-punishment (often by beating himself with a bloody scourge) & himself with a bloody scourge) &

walks the house at walks the house at

night.night.


Hawthorne’s irony shows up again in Hawthorne’s irony shows up again in the clever paradox of Dimmesdale’s the clever paradox of Dimmesdale’s futile attempts at public confession.futile attempts at public confession.

The more D asserts his own The more D asserts his own sinfulness, the holier the sinfulness, the holier the congregation believe him to be.congregation believe him to be.

Chapter 12 -- SummaryChapter 12 -- Summary Realizing the mockery of his standing Realizing the mockery of his standing

safe and unseen where he should safe and unseen where he should have stood seven years earlier have stood seven years earlier before the townspeople, Dimmesdale before the townspeople, Dimmesdale is overcome by a self-abhorrence is overcome by a self-abhorrence which leads him to shriek aloud.which leads him to shriek aloud.

Dimmesdale tells Pearl he cannot Dimmesdale tells Pearl he cannot stand with them on the scaffold the stand with them on the scaffold the next day but that he will stand with next day but that he will stand with them on judgement day.them on judgement day.

Hester refuses to reveal Hester refuses to reveal Chillingworth’s identity to Chillingworth’s identity to Dimmesdale.Dimmesdale.


One of the most powerful chapters (due One of the most powerful chapters (due to the symbolism)to the symbolism)

Hawthorne was a master at Hawthorne was a master at psychological realism (D’s sudden psychological realism (D’s sudden mood changes, self-condemnation, mood changes, self-condemnation, near insanity, subconscious expression near insanity, subconscious expression of suppressed desires).of suppressed desires).

D’s first two refusals to acknowledge D’s first two refusals to acknowledge publicly Hester and Pearl may suggest publicly Hester and Pearl may suggest Peter’s first two denials of Christ. (But Peter’s first two denials of Christ. (But perhaps Dimmesdale, like Peter, will perhaps Dimmesdale, like Peter, will have a third opportunity.)have a third opportunity.)

Chapter 13—Summary Chapter 13—Summary

Hester’s untiring services to the sick, Hester’s untiring services to the sick, the poor, and the troubled have won the poor, and the troubled have won her much respect among the her much respect among the townspeople who once condemned townspeople who once condemned her.her.

Some people attribute to the Some people attribute to the embroidered letter a supernatural embroidered letter a supernatural power to protect its wearer.power to protect its wearer.

Hester’s warmth, charm, and passion Hester’s warmth, charm, and passion have been replaced with coldness, have been replaced with coldness, severity, and drabness. severity, and drabness.

Chapter 13—SummaryChapter 13—Summary

Only in the care and education of Only in the care and education of Pearl does Hester demonstrate Pearl does Hester demonstrate warmth and enthusiasm (but Pearl’s warmth and enthusiasm (but Pearl’s abnormal nature baffles and saddens abnormal nature baffles and saddens Hester).Hester).

Hester wonders whether it would be Hester wonders whether it would be better if she and Pearl were dead. better if she and Pearl were dead. The fact that she can contemplate The fact that she can contemplate suicide indicates that the letter has suicide indicates that the letter has not done its job.not done its job.

Chapter 13—AnalysisChapter 13—Analysis

This chapter helps the reader This chapter helps the reader understand Hester.understand Hester.

Chapter 14--Summary Chapter 14--Summary

Chillingworth tells Hester that there is talk Chillingworth tells Hester that there is talk that she may be allowed to remove the letter.that she may be allowed to remove the letter.

Hester denies the right of the magistrates to Hester denies the right of the magistrates to remove the letter saying if she were worthy to remove the letter saying if she were worthy to not have the letter that it would naturally fall not have the letter that it would naturally fall away.away.

Hester believes Chillingworth has been Hester believes Chillingworth has been transformed into a devil. Chillingworth blames transformed into a devil. Chillingworth blames Dimmesdale for his transformation and says Dimmesdale for his transformation and says that D has made his purpose in life evil.that D has made his purpose in life evil.

Chapter 14--SummaryChapter 14--Summary

Chillingworth tells Hester that she Chillingworth tells Hester that she can reveal his identity to can reveal his identity to Dimmesdale. Dimmesdale.

Hester is not really sinful or fiend-Hester is not really sinful or fiend-like. Fate has created the tragic like. Fate has created the tragic situation.situation.

Chapter 14--AnalysisChapter 14--Analysis

Hester’s misery (as she senses her Hester’s misery (as she senses her responsibility for Dimmesdale’s suffering & responsibility for Dimmesdale’s suffering & for Chillingworth’s moral deterioration) for Chillingworth’s moral deterioration) evokes the physician’s sympathy.evokes the physician’s sympathy.

The suggestion that Chillingworth is The suggestion that Chillingworth is powerless to resist the dictates of fate powerless to resist the dictates of fate does does notnot in Hawthorne’s view, excuse the in Hawthorne’s view, excuse the physician from responsibility for his actions physician from responsibility for his actions --- but it does make it possible for the --- but it does make it possible for the reader to sympathize, while condemning reader to sympathize, while condemning him.him.


After Pearl arranges eel-grass (in the After Pearl arranges eel-grass (in the form of a letter A) on her dress, form of a letter A) on her dress, Hester tells Pearl that the green Hester tells Pearl that the green letter has no meaning.letter has no meaning.

Pearl says Hester’s letter means the Pearl says Hester’s letter means the same thing as when the minister same thing as when the minister puts his hand over his heart.puts his hand over his heart.

Hester says she knows nothing of the Hester says she knows nothing of the minister’s heart. minister’s heart.


Despite their moment of mutual pity in Despite their moment of mutual pity in the preceding chapter, Hester hates the preceding chapter, Hester hates Chillingworth. By involving her in the Chillingworth. By involving her in the unnatural marriage, Chillingworth set unnatural marriage, Chillingworth set off the chain of events leading to her off the chain of events leading to her present suffering, and Dimmesdale’s.present suffering, and Dimmesdale’s.

Despite Hester going beyond the letter Despite Hester going beyond the letter of the law in accepting punishment, she of the law in accepting punishment, she is not at heart truly repentant.is not at heart truly repentant.


The pathetic loneliness of Hester’s The pathetic loneliness of Hester’s position becomes vivid as Hawthorne position becomes vivid as Hawthorne shows her wondering whether she shows her wondering whether she might not make of Pearl a real friend might not make of Pearl a real friend and confide to her at least part of the and confide to her at least part of the truth about the letter A.truth about the letter A.

Only two adults besides Hester know Only two adults besides Hester know the full story and neither is convenient the full story and neither is convenient or pleasant to talk with about the or pleasant to talk with about the issue.issue.

Hester has no one to talk to.Hester has no one to talk to.


It is natural that Hester is tempted to It is natural that Hester is tempted to take Pearl into her confidence, and it take Pearl into her confidence, and it is sad that, instead, she slams the is sad that, instead, she slams the door on her daughter’s curiosity. In so door on her daughter’s curiosity. In so doing, Hester finds it necessary to lie doing, Hester finds it necessary to lie about the reason for her scarlet letter. about the reason for her scarlet letter. As Hawthorne points out, this is the As Hawthorne points out, this is the first time in seven years that she has first time in seven years that she has been false to the symbol she wears.been false to the symbol she wears.


While in the forest, Pearl suggests While in the forest, Pearl suggests that the sunshine is running from that the sunshine is running from Hester because of the letter she Hester because of the letter she wears.wears.

Hester tells Pearl that the Black Man Hester tells Pearl that the Black Man of the forest put the mark on Hester.of the forest put the mark on Hester.


The chilly gloom of the forest almost The chilly gloom of the forest almost perfectly reflects Hester’s state of perfectly reflects Hester’s state of mind.mind.

The narrow footpath through the The narrow footpath through the dense forest is suggestive of the dense forest is suggestive of the path which Hester has been forced to path which Hester has been forced to follow for the past seven years.follow for the past seven years.

Hester sees the forest itself as the Hester sees the forest itself as the “moral wilderness in which she had “moral wilderness in which she had so long been wandering.”so long been wandering.”


The obvious significance of the sunshine The obvious significance of the sunshine fleeing from Hester is complicated by the fleeing from Hester is complicated by the irony of the ever-vivacious Pearl’s appearing irony of the ever-vivacious Pearl’s appearing to absorb the sunshine.to absorb the sunshine.

The story of the Black Man and his mark is The story of the Black Man and his mark is described as common superstition; yet for described as common superstition; yet for Hester, it has a special and personal Hester, it has a special and personal meaning.meaning.

The brook is suggestive of Pearl “inasmuch The brook is suggestive of Pearl “inasmuch as the current of her life gushed from a well-as the current of her life gushed from a well-spring as mysterious, and had flowed through spring as mysterious, and had flowed through scenes shadowed as heavily with gloom.”scenes shadowed as heavily with gloom.”


The difference between the song of The difference between the song of the brook and the song of the girl is the brook and the song of the girl is also symbolic. Unlike the brook and also symbolic. Unlike the brook and Hester, Pearl has not known sorrow Hester, Pearl has not known sorrow which leads to melancholy. which leads to melancholy.

Chapter 17 -- SummaryChapter 17 -- Summary Neither Dimmesdale nor Hester have found Neither Dimmesdale nor Hester have found

peace.peace. Dimmesdale and Hester have both worked Dimmesdale and Hester have both worked

to atone for their sins; however, D suffers to atone for their sins; however, D suffers more because his sin is concealed. more because his sin is concealed.

Hester tells Dimmesdale that Chillingworth Hester tells Dimmesdale that Chillingworth is her husband and that he is an enemy to is her husband and that he is an enemy to D. D forgives Hester for not telling him D. D forgives Hester for not telling him earlier.earlier.

D says Chillingworth’s sin is greater than D says Chillingworth’s sin is greater than their sin.their sin.

Hester and D vow to leave Boston together.Hester and D vow to leave Boston together.

Chapter 17 -- AnalysisChapter 17 -- Analysis This chapter is key to the development of This chapter is key to the development of

the love story. After seven years, Hester the love story. After seven years, Hester and Dimmesdale are able to be alone to and Dimmesdale are able to be alone to talk.talk.

Hester realizes that she must be a source Hester realizes that she must be a source of strength for D.of strength for D.

Dimmesdale is seen as a man (rather Dimmesdale is seen as a man (rather than just a minister) whose passions are than just a minister) whose passions are not always under perfect control.not always under perfect control.

D’s cry of despair and appeal for help D’s cry of despair and appeal for help from Hester tend to humanize him and from Hester tend to humanize him and make him a more believable character.make him a more believable character.

Chapter 18 -- SummaryChapter 18 -- Summary Hester is a woman of independent mind Hester is a woman of independent mind

and strong passions, who has never been a and strong passions, who has never been a Puritan and who for seven years has not Puritan and who for seven years has not even been a member of society. Hester’s even been a member of society. Hester’s strength and assurance convince strength and assurance convince Dimmesdale that they can start a new life Dimmesdale that they can start a new life together. together.

Feeling a surge of joy, Hester removes her Feeling a surge of joy, Hester removes her letter and cap. As her rich, dark hair falls letter and cap. As her rich, dark hair falls about her shoulders, Hester youth, passion about her shoulders, Hester youth, passion and beauty seem to return. The sunshine and beauty seem to return. The sunshine breaks through the forest.breaks through the forest.

Chapter 18 -- SummaryChapter 18 -- Summary Dimmesdale is afraid that Pearl may not Dimmesdale is afraid that Pearl may not

like him. Hester is sure that having a like him. Hester is sure that having a father will help to straighten out Pearl.father will help to straighten out Pearl.

Pearl seems so wild in the village; Pearl seems so wild in the village; however, in the forest she is in her proper however, in the forest she is in her proper element. The forest, as though element. The forest, as though recognizing her nature, takes her in as recognizing her nature, takes her in as one of its own. The animals do not run one of its own. The animals do not run from Pearl and the wild flowers seem from Pearl and the wild flowers seem pleased when she gathers them to pleased when she gathers them to decorate her hair and dress.decorate her hair and dress.


In the forest, nature’s principles In the forest, nature’s principles operate rather than the laws of man. operate rather than the laws of man. Hester and Dimmesdale have given in Hester and Dimmesdale have given in to natural impulses, and Nature to natural impulses, and Nature symbolically indicates its approval in a symbolically indicates its approval in a sudden burst of sunshine. sudden burst of sunshine.

Mistakenly thinking that he can Mistakenly thinking that he can change his entire nature and turn his change his entire nature and turn his back on the past, the minister back on the past, the minister becomes exuberant at the thought of becomes exuberant at the thought of escaping with Hester.escaping with Hester.

Chapter 18 -- AnalysisChapter 18 -- Analysis The obvious symbolism of the forest’s The obvious symbolism of the forest’s

accepting Pearl is that she was born of a accepting Pearl is that she was born of a natural, rather than a socially-sanctioned, natural, rather than a socially-sanctioned, union.union.

With all three of the family group now With all three of the family group now molding their conduct to the laws of molding their conduct to the laws of nature (rather than the laws of man) it nature (rather than the laws of man) it almost appears they can find happiness. almost appears they can find happiness. The discouraging omens are that D fears The discouraging omens are that D fears that Pearl may not accept him and the that Pearl may not accept him and the slowness in which Pearl approaches him.slowness in which Pearl approaches him.

Chapter 19 – Summary & Chapter 19 – Summary & AnalysisAnalysis Dimmesdale admitted fear that someone might Dimmesdale admitted fear that someone might

have noticed the resemblance Pearl had to her have noticed the resemblance Pearl had to her father.father.

Upon seeing her mother without the letter, Pearl Upon seeing her mother without the letter, Pearl goes into a fit of rage.goes into a fit of rage.

In Chapter 2, Hester was tempted to hold Pearl In Chapter 2, Hester was tempted to hold Pearl up so as to cover the letter – but realized that up so as to cover the letter – but realized that “one token of shame would poorly serve to hide “one token of shame would poorly serve to hide another.”another.”

Here the living symbol (although she did so Here the living symbol (although she did so unknowingly) of Hester’s sin actually forces her unknowingly) of Hester’s sin actually forces her to accept again the cloth token (letter.)to accept again the cloth token (letter.)

Pearl kisses her mother but washes away Pearl kisses her mother but washes away Dimmesdale’s kiss because he has not publically Dimmesdale’s kiss because he has not publically acknowledged his part.acknowledged his part.

Chapter 20 – SummaryChapter 20 – Summary

Hester is to secretly book passage for Hester is to secretly book passage for two adults and one child on a Bristol-two adults and one child on a Bristol-bound ship. They are leaving for bound ship. They are leaving for Europe in four days – one day after Europe in four days – one day after Dimmesdale is to preach the Election Dimmesdale is to preach the Election Sermon. D is so happy that he seems Sermon. D is so happy that he seems physically stronger.physically stronger.

Back in town, D encounters irrational Back in town, D encounters irrational temptations. He wonders whether he temptations. He wonders whether he has really sold his soul to the devil.has really sold his soul to the devil.

D burns his old sermon and writes a D burns his old sermon and writes a new one.new one.

Chapter 20 – AnalysisChapter 20 – Analysis In the change in Dimmesdale, and in his series In the change in Dimmesdale, and in his series

of temptations toward some wild and wicked of temptations toward some wild and wicked action, Hawthorne shows the deep action, Hawthorne shows the deep subconscious effects of Dimmesdale’s subconscious effects of Dimmesdale’s conscious commitment to sin.conscious commitment to sin.

Until his agreement with Hester, D’s strong Until his agreement with Hester, D’s strong Puritan conscious had struggled constantly with Puritan conscious had struggled constantly with his weak will. But now, he has made the his weak will. But now, he has made the deliberate choice for the first time to do what deliberate choice for the first time to do what he wants (although it be a sin).he wants (although it be a sin).

D’s subconscious tries to make his guilt known. D’s subconscious tries to make his guilt known. Hawthorne had tremendous psychological Hawthorne had tremendous psychological insight.insight.

Chapter 21 – Summary & Chapter 21 – Summary & AnalysisAnalysis

Hester tells Pearl that the minister will Hester tells Pearl that the minister will be a the market place but that they be a the market place but that they must not greet each other.must not greet each other.

Hester learns that Chillingworth has Hester learns that Chillingworth has planned to take Dimmesdale on the planned to take Dimmesdale on the ship to Europe. Escaping ship to Europe. Escaping Chillingworth will not be an easy task Chillingworth will not be an easy task for Hester, Pearl, and D.for Hester, Pearl, and D.

Puritans were forbidden to act as Puritans were forbidden to act as freely as the sailorsfreely as the sailors

Chapter 22 -- Summary & Chapter 22 -- Summary & AnalysisAnalysis

As he passes, Dimmesdale fails to look at As he passes, Dimmesdale fails to look at Hester. It upsets and depresses Hester Hester. It upsets and depresses Hester that D ignored her in passing.that D ignored her in passing.

Dimmesdale’s strength is only temporary.Dimmesdale’s strength is only temporary. The strings of tension are drawn tighter The strings of tension are drawn tighter

as Hawthorne brings in each of the major as Hawthorne brings in each of the major characters. The point of crisis has characters. The point of crisis has arrived, and the problem is entirely arrived, and the problem is entirely Dimmesdale’s.Dimmesdale’s.


Dimmesdale inspires the crowd with his Dimmesdale inspires the crowd with his speech.speech.

Standing with Hester and Pearl, Standing with Hester and Pearl, Dimmesdale tells Hester that he is dying Dimmesdale tells Hester that he is dying and must acknowledge his shame – he and must acknowledge his shame – he turns to the crowd and discloses his guilt.turns to the crowd and discloses his guilt.

As D dies, Chillingworth cries out As D dies, Chillingworth cries out (because D is escaping his grasp).(because D is escaping his grasp).

D asks God to forgive Chillingworth, asks D asks God to forgive Chillingworth, asks for a kiss from Pearl (which he receives), for a kiss from Pearl (which he receives), and tells Hester farewell.and tells Hester farewell.


Dimmesdale symbolically rejects the help Dimmesdale symbolically rejects the help of Reverend Wilson (representing the of Reverend Wilson (representing the church) and Governor Bellingham church) and Governor Bellingham (representing the state). He turns only to (representing the state). He turns only to Hester for support in a moment of crisis – Hester for support in a moment of crisis – even she cannot help him at this point. He even she cannot help him at this point. He must expose the letter on his chest.must expose the letter on his chest.

When the climactic action drains D of his When the climactic action drains D of his strength and he collapses, it is again strength and he collapses, it is again Hester on whom he leans. But she cannot Hester on whom he leans. But she cannot assure him that his public act of assure him that his public act of repentance was better than their plan to repentance was better than their plan to escape from Boston.escape from Boston.


D’s recognition of Pearl takes place in the D’s recognition of Pearl takes place in the form of a highly symbolic kiss. It form of a highly symbolic kiss. It symbolizes Pearl’s acceptance and symbolizes Pearl’s acceptance and forgiveness of him. Also, it converts her forgiveness of him. Also, it converts her from a cold, unreal, imp-like creature into from a cold, unreal, imp-like creature into a human being, one who weeps human a human being, one who weeps human tears for the first time in the book. Pearl tears for the first time in the book. Pearl becomes a person --- “A spell was becomes a person --- “A spell was broken.”broken.”

D has made his place with God, but unlike D has made his place with God, but unlike Hester, he is too much the Puritan to be Hester, he is too much the Puritan to be optimistic about the future.optimistic about the future.


Some people in the market place say the Some people in the market place say the mark on Dimmesdale was the result of mark on Dimmesdale was the result of Chillingworth’s magic drugs --- while Chillingworth’s magic drugs --- while others say it was the result of a suffering others say it was the result of a suffering spirit, the result of D’s own hand, or that spirit, the result of D’s own hand, or that there was no mark at all.there was no mark at all.

Though he finds Chillingworth’s sin the Though he finds Chillingworth’s sin the most grievous in the book, Hawthorne is most grievous in the book, Hawthorne is not Puritan enough to view the man not Puritan enough to view the man coldly and vindictively.coldly and vindictively.


Hawthorne gives strong hints that Pearl Hawthorne gives strong hints that Pearl lived on in happiness and wealth, married lived on in happiness and wealth, married well, had a child, and remained an well, had a child, and remained an affectionate and dutiful daughter to Hester.affectionate and dutiful daughter to Hester.

While Hester, Dimmesdale, and While Hester, Dimmesdale, and Chillingworth were all involved in the Chillingworth were all involved in the tragedy through their own sins, Pearl was a tragedy through their own sins, Pearl was a helpless victim.helpless victim.

The end of the novel focuses on Hester. The end of the novel focuses on Hester. After inheriting property (incredible wealth) After inheriting property (incredible wealth) from Chillingworth, Hester went to Europe from Chillingworth, Hester went to Europe with Pearl. After a number of years Hester with Pearl. After a number of years Hester returned to her cottage in Boston.returned to her cottage in Boston.


Although Hester had done her penitence Although Hester had done her penitence (and not the sternest Puritan would have (and not the sternest Puritan would have forced Hester to wear the letter again), she forced Hester to wear the letter again), she put it on voluntarily and wore it the rest of put it on voluntarily and wore it the rest of her life.her life.

Hester gained a kind of wisdom through her Hester gained a kind of wisdom through her suffering. After many years, Hester died and suffering. After many years, Hester died and was buried in the cemetery near was buried in the cemetery near Dimmesdale. One tombstone served both Dimmesdale. One tombstone served both graves and read – “On a black background, graves and read – “On a black background, the scarlet letter A.”the scarlet letter A.”

ReferencesReferences

http://www.shakespeare.org/http://www.shakespeare.org/photolibrary/2002_images_media/photolibrary/2002_images_media/scarlet_media/index.htmscarlet_media/index.htm

The Scarlet LetterThe Scarlet Letter

Review PowerPointReview PowerPoint

English 11English 11

Mrs. DibbleMrs. Dibble

Nathaniel Hawthorne – Nathaniel Hawthorne – the man behind the novelthe man behind the novel

1804-18641804-1864 Sometimes known as an Anti-Sometimes known as an Anti-

transcendentalist – didn’t believe in transcendentalist – didn’t believe in man’s power to go beyondman’s power to go beyond

He believed that evil was a dominant He believed that evil was a dominant force in the world and his fiction force in the world and his fiction expressed a gloomy version of expressed a gloomy version of human affairshuman affairs

Cont.Cont.

Inherited Guilt – born is Salem, Inherited Guilt – born is Salem, Massachusetts and was descended Massachusetts and was descended from a prominent Puritan family.from a prominent Puritan family.

Ancestor played key role (hanging Ancestor played key role (hanging judge) in Salem witchcraft trialsjudge) in Salem witchcraft trials

Another ancestor was known for Another ancestor was known for the persecution of Quakers the persecution of Quakers

Most of his works deal with Most of his works deal with inherited guiltinherited guilt

Hangin’ with the Hangin’ with the TrancendentalistsTrancendentalists

Lived in a Utopian society (Brook Lived in a Utopian society (Brook Farm) for a while Farm) for a while

Got married and moved to ConcordGot married and moved to Concord Hung out with Emerson and Thoreau Hung out with Emerson and Thoreau

(leaders in spiritual philosophies) but (leaders in spiritual philosophies) but didn’t gel with their beliefsdidn’t gel with their beliefs

Out of ThereOut of There

Appointed surveyor at Salem Custom Appointed surveyor at Salem Custom House (which accounts for the first House (which accounts for the first pDimmesdale of pDimmesdale of The Scarlet LetterThe Scarlet Letter))

This is where he wrote (and grained This is where he wrote (and grained great success with) great success with) The Scarlet The Scarlet Letter. Letter. Typical of Hawthorne’s work, Typical of Hawthorne’s work, this novel deals with guilt and sin this novel deals with guilt and sin among early Puritans.among early Puritans.

The Historical Context of the The Historical Context of the NovelNovel

Hawthorne chose Boston in the 1640s as the Hawthorne chose Boston in the 1640s as the setting for the text – only about a 1000 setting for the text – only about a 1000 English Puritans lived there thenEnglish Puritans lived there then

Puritans (established during reign of Queen Puritans (established during reign of Queen Elizabeth – thus the reference to her) sought Elizabeth – thus the reference to her) sought to purify the church and wipe out all traces of to purify the church and wipe out all traces of Catholicism (thus the negative Catholic Catholicism (thus the negative Catholic comments)comments)

Boston was ruled by a theocracy and the Boston was ruled by a theocracy and the government was not intended to provide government was not intended to provide religious freedom to allreligious freedom to all

Those who didn’t fit in (i.e. Quakers) were Those who didn’t fit in (i.e. Quakers) were dealt with harshly.dealt with harshly.

Predestination – a Puritan DoctrinePredestination – a Puritan Doctrine

Puritans believed that all things are controlled Puritans believed that all things are controlled beforehand by the Hand of God.beforehand by the Hand of God.

All humans deserved damnation because of original sin All humans deserved damnation because of original sin however God elected to save some anyway.however God elected to save some anyway.

One could not influence that destiny by good works or One could not influence that destiny by good works or alter the divine plan.alter the divine plan.

Nonetheless, Puritans fought to remain righteous, Nonetheless, Puritans fought to remain righteous, suppressing the desires of the flesh (which is why what suppressing the desires of the flesh (which is why what Dimmesdale and Hester do is sooooo bad).Dimmesdale and Hester do is sooooo bad).

Puritans believed they could recognize internal Puritans believed they could recognize internal corruption in others.corruption in others.

Harsh discipline wasn’t necessary to punish, since God Harsh discipline wasn’t necessary to punish, since God would do that. It was to show others what would would do that. It was to show others what would happen if they did the same thing. This is why Hester happen if they did the same thing. This is why Hester is pointed out all of the time.is pointed out all of the time.

There were some There were some paradoxes…paradoxes…

Although Puritans embraced a strict life, Although Puritans embraced a strict life, it wasn’t always somber and simple.it wasn’t always somber and simple.

They encouraged tradesmen and They encouraged tradesmen and craftsmen to live among them craftsmen to live among them

They prized simplicity yet loved fine They prized simplicity yet loved fine clothing.clothing.

Their furniture makers developed great Their furniture makers developed great Dimmesdaleistry and their leaders (like Dimmesdaleistry and their leaders (like the governor Hester goes to visit) lived the governor Hester goes to visit) lived in fine houses.in fine houses.

Interesting…Interesting…

Although Hester Prynne is fictional, Although Hester Prynne is fictional, she may have been derived by a she may have been derived by a woman to whom Hawthorne’s woman to whom Hawthorne’s ancestor meted out punishment.ancestor meted out punishment.

Hester Craford, for fornication with Hester Craford, for fornication with John Wedg, as she confessed, was John Wedg, as she confessed, was ordered to be severely whipped. The ordered to be severely whipped. The whipping was delayed until six weeks whipping was delayed until six weeks after she gave birth to the after she gave birth to the illegitimate child.illegitimate child.

Literary Focus of ChaptersLiterary Focus of Chapters

Chapter One – The Prison DoorChapter One – The Prison Door

* sets the scene for action to come* sets the scene for action to come

* prepares reader for theme – w/ * prepares reader for theme – w/ discussion of prison and rosebushdiscussion of prison and rosebush

* introduces contrasting symbols of * introduces contrasting symbols of weeds and flowers – sin and weeds and flowers – sin and forgivenessforgiveness

*reveals theme of human forgiveness*reveals theme of human forgiveness

Cont. Cont.

Chapter Two – The Market PlaceChapter Two – The Market Place

* introduces stern morality of Puritan society* introduces stern morality of Puritan society

* we see Hawthorne’s disapproval of the stern * we see Hawthorne’s disapproval of the stern women in the crowdwomen in the crowd

* introduces main character – immediately * introduces main character – immediately showing his sympathy for her by making her showing his sympathy for her by making her full of beauty, grace, and pridefull of beauty, grace, and pride

* scaffold is introduced as a symbol of the * scaffold is introduced as a symbol of the public view of things as contrasted with what public view of things as contrasted with what is hidden in people’s (Dimmesdale’s) heartis hidden in people’s (Dimmesdale’s) heart

Cont. Cont. Chapter 3 – The RecognitionChapter 3 – The Recognition

* the reader strongly suspects that * the reader strongly suspects that the deformed stranger is Hester’s the deformed stranger is Hester’s husband whom she had been husband whom she had been thinking about in the previous thinking about in the previous chapterchapter

* suspense is built* suspense is built

Cont. Cont. Chapter 4 – The InterviewChapter 4 – The Interview* develops Chillingworth’s character* develops Chillingworth’s character* Hester shows that she fears his * Hester shows that she fears his nature when she asks, “Dimmesdale nature when she asks, “Dimmesdale thou like the Black Man that haunts thou like the Black Man that haunts the forest around us?”the forest around us?”

Chapter 5 – Hester at her NeedleChapter 5 – Hester at her Needle* entirely descriptive chapter which * entirely descriptive chapter which examines Hester’s penance for her sinexamines Hester’s penance for her sin

Cont. Cont. Chapter 6 – PearlChapter 6 – Pearl

* Also has little plot & no dialogue* Also has little plot & no dialogue

* Describes Hester’s penance in relationship to * Describes Hester’s penance in relationship to her daughterher daughter

* Although, a reminder of her sin like the letter, * Although, a reminder of her sin like the letter, Pearl is “a lovely child, whose placw was on that Pearl is “a lovely child, whose placw was on that same dishonored boson, to connect her parent same dishonored boson, to connect her parent forever with the race and descent of mortals, and forever with the race and descent of mortals, and to be finally a blessed soul in heaven.”to be finally a blessed soul in heaven.”

Cont. Cont. Chapter 7 – The Governor’s HallChapter 7 – The Governor’s Hall

* heavy in symbolism* heavy in symbolism

* Hester’s A is magnified in the * Hester’s A is magnified in the governor’s armor governor’s armor

* Pearl demands a rose from the * Pearl demands a rose from the bush which reminds us of the bush which reminds us of the rosebush outside of the prisonrosebush outside of the prison

Cont. Cont. Chapter 8 – The Elf-child and the MinisterChapter 8 – The Elf-child and the Minister

* Four main characters come together * Four main characters come together

* Hints are given that Dimmesdale is * Hints are given that Dimmesdale is Pearl’s fatherPearl’s father

* Physical appearances mirror * Physical appearances mirror psychological or spiritual states. psychological or spiritual states. Dimmesdale is weak; Pearl is impish, and Dimmesdale is weak; Pearl is impish, and Chillingworth is freaky ugly and more Chillingworth is freaky ugly and more misshapen.misshapen.

Cont. Cont.

Chapter 9 – The Leech Chapter 9 – The Leech * Develops more fully what was hinted at in * Develops more fully what was hinted at in the previous chapterthe previous chapter

Chapter 10 – The Leech and His PatientChapter 10 – The Leech and His Patient* Reminds us that Chillingworth has always * Reminds us that Chillingworth has always been kind and upright which contrasts with been kind and upright which contrasts with what he has becomewhat he has become* Emphasizes how revenge has contributed to * Emphasizes how revenge has contributed to Chillingworth’s declineChillingworth’s decline* Pearl is shown to have insight – seeing * Pearl is shown to have insight – seeing Chillingworth as the Black ManChillingworth as the Black Man* At the end of the chapter Chillingworth * At the end of the chapter Chillingworth makes some kind of discoverymakes some kind of discovery

Cont. Cont. Chapter 11 – The Interior of a heartChapter 11 – The Interior of a heart

* Chillingworth becomes certain of Dimmesdale’s * Chillingworth becomes certain of Dimmesdale’s guilt and his cruel purpose is intensifiedguilt and his cruel purpose is intensified* Ironic that Dimmesdale’s attempt at public * Ironic that Dimmesdale’s attempt at public confession only intensifies his parishioners’ love confession only intensifies his parishioners’ love for himfor him

Chapter 12 – The Minister’s Vigil Chapter 12 – The Minister’s Vigil * 2* 2ndnd of 3 scaffold scenes, bringing all 4 of 3 scaffold scenes, bringing all 4 characters togethercharacters together* duality of light in the sky – what is the real * duality of light in the sky – what is the real meaning?meaning?* Dimmesdale’s subconscious – he does not go * Dimmesdale’s subconscious – he does not go willingly to the scaffold, sleepwalks there; barely willingly to the scaffold, sleepwalks there; barely resists his impulses – wants to shriek outresists his impulses – wants to shriek out

Cont. Cont.

Chapter 13 – Another View of HesterChapter 13 – Another View of Hester• States the changes that have occurred in States the changes that have occurred in

Hester over time and the way the Hester over time and the way the community sees hercommunity sees her

Chapter 14 – Hester and the Physician Chapter 14 – Hester and the Physician • Evokes reader’s sympathy for Chillingworth, Evokes reader’s sympathy for Chillingworth,

who with the potential of being a good man, who with the potential of being a good man, has turned into a fiend.has turned into a fiend.

• At the end of the chapter he shows his At the end of the chapter he shows his admiration and sympathy for Hesteradmiration and sympathy for Hester

Cont. Cont. Chapter 15 – Hester and PearlChapter 15 – Hester and Pearl

* Hawthorne explores Hester’s inner world. * Hawthorne explores Hester’s inner world.

* Here she looks a little negative because of her * Here she looks a little negative because of her expressed hatred for Chillingworth and her lie to expressed hatred for Chillingworth and her lie to Pearl.Pearl.

Chapter 16 – A Forest WalkChapter 16 – A Forest Walk

* Symbolic chapter – rays of sunshine that * Symbolic chapter – rays of sunshine that disappear for Hester, Pearl resembling the brook disappear for Hester, Pearl resembling the brook – even if unlike the brook she is sparkling – this is – even if unlike the brook she is sparkling – this is because, as Pearl says, “I wear nothing on my because, as Pearl says, “I wear nothing on my bosom yet!”bosom yet!”

Cont. Cont.

Chapter 17 – The Pastor and His ParishionerChapter 17 – The Pastor and His Parishioner* 1* 1stst chapter of a love story chapter of a love story* 1* 1stst time Dimmesdale and Hester are alone time Dimmesdale and Hester are alone togethertogether* Shows the depth of Hester’s feelings for * Shows the depth of Hester’s feelings for DimmesdaleDimmesdale

Chapter 18 – A Flood of SunshineChapter 18 – A Flood of Sunshine* Setting of the forest plays important role, * Setting of the forest plays important role, representing an oasis of freedomrepresenting an oasis of freedom* Allows Hester to let down hair and throw off her * Allows Hester to let down hair and throw off her letterletter* Hester, Dimmesdale, and Pearl plan to follow * Hester, Dimmesdale, and Pearl plan to follow natural laws instead of laws of mankindnatural laws instead of laws of mankind* Weird relationship between Pearl and * Weird relationship between Pearl and Dimmesdale – his fear and her reluctanceDimmesdale – his fear and her reluctance

Cont. Cont. Chapter 19 – The Child at the BrooksideChapter 19 – The Child at the Brookside* Pearl’s behavior is focus – her being * Pearl’s behavior is focus – her being upset with the changes in Hester and upset with the changes in Hester and her wiping away Dimmesdale’s kissher wiping away Dimmesdale’s kiss

Chapter 20 – The Minister in a MazeChapter 20 – The Minister in a Maze* Shows the effects of Dimmesdale’s * Shows the effects of Dimmesdale’s subconscioussubconscious* He seems to want to reveal his sinful * He seems to want to reveal his sinful nature to the worldnature to the world

Cont. Cont. Chapter 21 – The New England HolidayChapter 21 – The New England Holiday* Hawthorne interrupts the plot to talk * Hawthorne interrupts the plot to talk about Puritan societyabout Puritan society* Gives historical background of Election * Gives historical background of Election dayday

Chapter 22 – The ProcessionChapter 22 – The Procession* This chapter revolves around * This chapter revolves around Dimmesdale – the other three main Dimmesdale – the other three main characters are waiting to see how he characters are waiting to see how he handles his conflicthandles his conflict

Cont. Cont. Chapter 23 – The RevelationChapter 23 – The Revelation* 3* 3rdrd and final scaffold scene and final scaffold scene* novel’s climax* novel’s climax* significant that Pearl kisses Dimmesdale for the * significant that Pearl kisses Dimmesdale for the first time before he diesfirst time before he dies

Chapter 24 – Conclusion Chapter 24 – Conclusion * the denouement of the novel* the denouement of the novel* Gives fates of remaining characters* Gives fates of remaining characters* Philosophizes on the lessons to be learned* Philosophizes on the lessons to be learned

the scarlet letter by nathaniel hawthorne

Documents

hesters sin

sin of adultery

dimmesdale hides

little pearl

asked pearl

mothers scarlet letter

dark of night

hesters original sin