The rose bush represents the small amount of hope that is present in the people at the prison, even though the prison itself represents the lack of hope in the people during their imprisonment. This shows a transcendental belief that nature is holy and it connects with people.
Interesting Passages
The rust on the ponderous iron-work of its oaken door looked more antique than any thing else in the new world. Like all that pertains to crime, it seemed never to have known a youthful era. Before this ugly edifice, and between it and the wheel-track of the street, was a grass-plot, much overgrown with burdock, pig-weed, apple-peru, and such unsightly vegetation, which evidently found something congenial in the soil that had so early borne the black flower of civilized society, a prison. But, on one side of the portal, and rooted almost at the threshold, was a wild rose-bush, covered, in this month of June, with its delicate gems, which might be imagined to offer their fragrance and fragile beauty to the prisoner as he went in, and to the condemned criminal as he came forth to his doom, in token that the deep heart of Nature could pity and be kind to him. (Page 40)
Chapter 2
Symbolism
The scaffold represents the humility and consequences in which people must endure for committing sins.
The Scarlet Letter represents the reputation Prynne has made for herself.
Interesting Passages
“Had there been a Papist [a Catholic] among the crowd of Puritans, he might have seen in this beautiful woman, so picturesque in her attire and mien, and with the infant at her bosom, an object to remind him of the image of Divine Maternity, which so many illustrious painters have vied with one another to represent; something which should remind him, indeed, but only by contrast, of that sacred image of sinless motherhood, whose infant was to redeem the world.” –Page 47 “The scene was not without a mixture of awe, such as must always invest the spectacle of guilt and shame in a fellow-creature, before society shall have grown corrupt enough to smile, instead of shuddering, at it.” –Page 47
Questions and Predictions
The father of Hester Prynne’s child will most likely be revealed at some point in the story. If any, what other public humility will Hester Prynne be forced to endure? Will the women who criticized Prynne be relevant in the rest of the story? If so, how?
Other
People in modern times, especially celebrities and other public figures, are constantly being forced to endure public humiliation; such as in the cases of figures such as Tiger Woods and Elliot Spitzer.
Chapter 3
Symbolism
Reverend Dimmesdale is a symbol of justice and compassion, as he is the only official who seems to view Hester as a human being.
Interesting Passages
“Speak, woman!” said another voice, coldly and sternly, proceeding from the crowd about the scaffold. “Speak; and give your child a father!” “I will not speak!” answered Hester, turning pale as death, but responding to this voice, which she too surely recognized. “And my child must seek a heavenly Father; she shall never know an earthly one!” (pg 57)
Questions and Predictions Chapters 1-3
Mr. Prynne will find the father and publicly shame him, much like Mrs. Prynne was.
Why does Mr. Prynne want to publicly shame the father of his wife’s new baby? What does he hope to accomplish by doing so?
What will happen to Mrs. Prynne and what effect did the public shame that she faced have on her and the on looking people?
Does Mrs. Prynne have anybody who is on her side?
What does the dark prison and the beautiful rose bush foreshadow?
Why is the Scarlet letter so elegant if it’s purpose is to shame her?
Since Divine Maternity is referred to, do you think that someone will have pity on her because of this religious belief?
Why is Hester not selling out the father of her baby? Where do you think he is and what do you think the father is doing?
Chapter 7
Imagery/ Symbolism
The governors servant shows the burden that Hester is suffering from. The serf was born as a free Englishmen, but is now being forced to serve for 7 years as a slave. Hester was born free in England as well, but now she is suffering by being a "slave" because she cannot do what she wants, but is controlled by the demands of the governor, who wants to take away Pearl.
The armor shows the reflection of Hester, in which the Scarlet letter seems to completely block out her appearance, and the letter becomes very exaggerated. This shows Hester and the reader that the letter is the most dominating feature of Hester and blocks out her true self.
Character Behavior
During this chapter, Hester seems to be in her own train of thought, examining her surroundings, the house of the governor. She is thinking a lot about the governor as a person and how he has become not only a governor, but a soldier and a ruler. Pearl on the other hand, seems to be fascinated by her surroundings, and doesn't understand the circumstances that she is in. She takes a lot of interest in the armor that was in the house because she could see her mothers reflection is it, where the Scarlet Letter was exaggerated and took over the image.
Interesting Passages
Hester looked, by way of humoring the child; and she saw that owing to the peculiar effect of this convex mirror, the Scarlet Letter was represented and exaggerated and gigantic proportions, so as to be greatly the most prominent feature of her appearance. In truth she seemed absolutely hidden behind it... (Page 90)
Chapter 8
Imagery/Symbolism
During chapter 8, Pearl shows that she can almost sense the "good guys" and the "bad guys". First off, Pearl "sensed" that there was something not right in the room she was in and attempted to escape out of a window. Next, she shunned the governor because he was trying to separate her from her mother and went to Dimmesdale because he was helping the two stay together. He also called her a blessing from God, as well as a curse.
Character Behavior
Pearl, throughout the chapter shows her intuition, even though she is so young, and can understand what is happening without understanding the words completely. Hester becomes desperate to keep her child and begs Dimmesdale to help her. Although the governor wants to take Pearl away, Dimmesdale speaks on her behalf and convinces the other two, besides the governor to let them stay together.
Questions:
What will Dimmesdale's role in the rest of the story be?
What will the governor try to do in order to take Pearl away?
Chapter 9
Imagery/ Symbolism:
Roger Chillngworth and Reverend Dimmesdale are opposite symbols representing science and logic on Chillingowrth’s part, and religion and spirituality on Dimmesdale’s. also, Dimmesdale’s physical condition represents his mental and emotional state as well; in ill health.
Character Behavior or Psychology:
As Reverend Dimmesale is in ill health and will not marry, Roger Chillingworth, regarded as a respected doctor in Boston, proposes to live with him and take him under his wing. The towns people, additionally, begin to realize that Chillingworth is taking on a more sinister look as time passes.
Interesting Passages:
"Roger Chillingworth - the man of skill, the kind and friendly physician - strove to go deep into his patient's bosom, delving among his principles, prying into his recollections, and probing everything with a cautious touch, like a treasure-seeker in a dark cavern. Few secrets can escape an investigator, who has opportunity and license to undertake such a quest, and skill to follow it up. A man burdened with a secret should especially avoid the intimacy of his physician." Page 114
Questions/ Predictions:
The evil the towns people are beginning to see in Doctor Chillingworth may begin to show in Chillingworth’s actions towards the Reverend in their home. In addition, Chillingworth’s interactions with Dimmesdale may reveal both of their past sins.
Other:
It seems that time and time again if two people both have committed some sort of wrong doing, they are more likely to reveal what it is they have done if they know another has committed as well. I also think many people can most likely relate with Reverend Dimmesdale with concern to the fact that he is experiencing debilitating guilt from keeping his sin a secret where as although Hester is experiencing humiliation from her sin being exposed, she does not need to endure the feeling of guilt.
Chapter 10
Symbols
In Chapter Ten, Roger Chillingworth represents the “Black Man,” or Devil, as he is out for revenge against the father of Hester’s child. Throughout this chapter, he becomes more and more suspicious that the man is Dimmesdale himself, and he begins to purposely make to reverend suffer.
Character Behavior
As the title suggests, Roger Chillingworth is considered to be a “leech” because of the way he latches on the Dimmesdale and won’t let go. At first, he is trying to help Dimmesdale, using medicines and potions to try to cure him, similar to how actual leeches were used as a remedy for sick patients during this time. But later on, after Chillingworth begins to realize that Dimmesdale is the father of Hester’s baby, he becomes more and more destructive and tries to torture Dimmesdale mentally until he can’t bear it anymore.
Meaningful Quotes
"Come away, mother! Come away, or yonder old Black Man will catch you! He hath got hold of the minister already. Come away, mother, or he will catch you! But he cannot catch little Pearl!" (pg. 123)
Questions
What did Chillingworth find on Dimmesdale’s chest?
Why did it make him so happy?
Will Dimmesdale ever realize who the doctor really is?
Do you think Dimmesdale will ever confess his sin to the public?
Chapter 14
Imagery
In this chapter, Dimmesdale and Hester are finally shown together with a more intimate connection than before. For the first time you can see the relationship between the two and the love that they both have. It is also referred to that the two do not see their actions as a sin, but more as a natural action. When Hester brings up the idea of running away, Dimmesdale is filled with joy.
Character Behavior
Hester finally shows her love for Dimmesdale and is able to be outright with it, rather than hide. She is finally alone and away from everybody, so her and Dimmesdale can finally talk about their relationship. Dimmesdale rejoices when Hester brings up the idea of leaving for Europe, but when Hester removes the letter from her chest, Pearl fails to recognize her.
Interesting Passages
"Do with him as thou wilt! There is no good for him,- no good for me,- no good for thee! There is no good for little Pearl! There is no path to guide us out of this dismal maze!" (Page 151)
Predictions
I predict that Chillingworth will find out about the plan for Hester and Dimmesdale to run away and will try to stop it. I feel that his way of stopping it will have to do with hurting or capturing Pearl.
Chapter 15
Character Behavior
Pearl is the only character in the story besides Hester and Dimmesdale themselves who has discovered the connection between them. Pearl knows that her mother’s scarlet letter and Reverend Dimmesdale’s clutching of his heart are linked together, although she doesn’t know how.
Interesting Passages
“Let men tremble to win the hand of woman, unless they win along with it the utmost passion of her heart! Else it may be their miserable fortune, when some mightier touch than their own may have awakened all her sensibilities, to be reproached even for the calm content, the marble image of happiness, which they will have imposed upon her as the warm reality.” Chapter 15
Questions
Why does Pearl make her own letter “A” out of grass? Will Pealr figure out what the connection between her mother and Dimmesdale is?
Chapter 16
Imagery/ Symbolism
"The road, after the two wayfarers had crossed from the Peninsula to the mainland, was no other than a foot-path. It straggled onward into the mystery of the primeval forest. This hemmed it in so narrowly, and stood so black and dense on either side, and disclosed such imperfect glimpses of the sky above, that, to Hester's mind, it imaged not amiss the moral wilderness in which she had so long been wandering. The day was chill and sombre. Overhead was a gray expanse of cloud, slightly stirred, however, by a breeze; so that a gleam of flickering sunshine might now and then be seen at its solitary play along the path. This flitting cheerfulness was always at the further extremity of some long vista through the forest. The sportive sunlight--feebly sportive, at best, in the predominant pensiveness of the day and scene--withdrew itself as they came nigh, and left the spots where it had danced the drearier, because they had hoped to find them bright."
The sunlight that seems to avoid Hester represents the sin-free soul she does not possess. This symbol of light and dark remains evident with concern to the fact that the minister is referred to the "Black Man" by Hester, with reference to his guilt and sin.
Character Behavior
Although Pearl is coming to have the notion that the "Black Man" may have left his mark on the minister (who, in reality, is the "Black Man"), Hester continues to hide the minister's significance from Pearl.
Interesting Passages
“Mother,” said little Pearl, “the sunshine does not love you. It runs away and hides itself, because it is afraid of something on your bosom. . . . It will not flee from me; for I wear nothing on my bosom yet!” -Page 180
Predictions/ Questions:
Sooner than later, Chillingworth, as well as Pearl will discover the significance of the Reverend Dimmesdale, be it via Hester or not.
Is the minister actually Pearl's father, or is Nathaniel Hawthorne just making it seem so as to keep the reader from knowing the true identity of her father until a later point in the story?
Chapter 17
Imagery/ Symbolism:
"Gathering himself quickly up, he stood more erect, like a man taken by surprise in a mood to which he was reluctant to have witnesses. Throwing his eyes anxiously in the direction of the voice, he indistinctly beheld a form under the trees, clad in garments so sombre, and so little relieved from the gray twilight into which the clouded sky and the heavy foliage had darkened the noontide, that he knew not whether it were a woman or a shadow." -Page 166
"Arthur Dimmesdale put forth his hand, chill as death, and touched the chill hand of Hester Prynne. The grasp, cold as it was, took away what was dreariest in the interview. They now felt themselves, at least, inhabitants of the same sphere." -Page 167
Hester calling the minister by his first name, Arthur, symbolizes the intimacy between both she and Dimemsdale, which, prior to this chapter was unknown to the reader. Additionally, the fact that Dimmesdale finds comfort with his face on the Scarlet Letter represents the way in which he and Hester have accepted their actions as, not a sin, but as an act of nature.
Character Behavior or Psychology:
Hester and Dimesdale no longer see their affair as a sin, but rather an act that must have happened in the name of nature. For the first time in the story, the intimacy between the two is revealed. Although Hester did not want to flee Boston at the beginning of the book, she has now changed her mind as she and Dimmesdale want to flee to Europe with Pearl to live as a family in peace.
Interesting Passages:
" 'You wrong yourself in this,' said Hester, gently. 'You have deeply and sorely repented. Your sin is left behind you, in the days long past. Your present life is not less holy, in very truth, than it seems in people's eyes. Is there no reality in the penitence thus sealed and witnessed by good works? And wherefore should it not bring you peace?' "-Page 168
" 'O Arthur,' cried she, 'forgive me! In all things else, I have striven to be true! Truth was the one virtue which I might have held fast, and did hold fast through all extremity; save when thy good,—thy life,—thy fame,—were put in question! Then I consented to a deception. But a lie is never good, even though death threaten on the other side! Dost thou not see what I would say? That old man!—the physician!—he whom they call Roger Chillingworth!—he was my husband!' "
Questions/ Predictions you have:
Will Chillingworth and the townspeople learn that Dimmesdale is the father of Pearl? Will they dismiss Dimmesdale since he has contributed so much to the community or will they judge him even more harshly because he is regarded as a role model of a man?
Will Hester and Dimmesdale tell the public themselves of the sin Dimmesdale has committed, or, will the townspeople discover it on their own?
Chapter 18
Imagery/Symbolism:
The shedding of the scarlet letter represent the new freedom Hester will have from his public shame and Dimmesdale will have from his guilt once they move to Europe.
"So speaking, she undid the clasp that fastened the scarlet letter, and, taking it from her bosom, threw it to a distance among the withered leaves. The mystic token alighted on the hither verge of the stream. With a hand’s breadth farther flight it would have fallen into the water, and have given the little brook another woe to carry onward, besides the unintelligible tale which it still kept murmuring about. But there lay the embroidered letter, glittering like a lost jewel, which some ill-fated wanderer might pick up, and thenceforth be haunted by strange phantoms of guilt, sinkings of the heart, and unaccountable misfortune." -Page 177
Interesting Passages:
"Thus, we seem to see that, as regarded Hester Prynne, the whole seven years of outlaw and ignominy had been little other than a preparation for this very hour. But Arthur Dimmesdale! Were such a man once more to fall, what plea could be urged in extenuation of his crime? None; unless it avail him somewhat, that he was broken down by long and exquisite suffering; that his mind was darkened and confused by the very remorse which harrowed it; that, between fleeing as an avowed criminal, and remaining as a hypocrite, conscience might find it hard to strike the balance; that it was human to avoid the peril of death and infamy, and the inscrutable machinations of an enemy; that, finally, to this poor pilgrim, on his dreary and desert path, faint, sick, miserable, there appeared a glimpse of human affection and sympathy, a new life, and a true one, in exchange for the heavy doom which he was now expiating."- Page 176
"“Do I feel joy again?” cried he, wondering at himself. “Methought the germ of it was dead in me! O Hester, thou art my better angel! I seem to have flung myself—sick, sin-stained, and sorrow-blackened—down upon these forest-leaves, and to have risen up all made anew, and with new powers to glorify Him that hath been merciful! This is already the better life! Why did we not find it sooner?” -Page 177
Character Behavior or Psychology:
As Hester sheds the scarlet letter, the sunshine, which has previously been symbolic of being sin-free, covers the forest. She lets down her hair and throws the letter, showing that she is no longer ashamed of her supposed sin and that she is now sin-free herself.
Chapter 19
Character Behavior or Psychology:
Pearl refuses to approach Hester and Dimemsdale until Hester replaces the scarlet letter on her chest. This may be so as Pearl has only ever known her mother with the sin pinned to her chest.
Questions/ Predictions you have:
Will Pearl learn to accept her mother without her wearing the the scarlet letter?
Can Pearl and Dimmesdale become comfortable with each other?
Chapter 20
Imagery/ Symbolism
Although obvious to the reader, Chillingworth still does not know if Dimmesdale knows his true identity and decides not to ask Dimmesdale outright if he knows his identity.
Character Behavior
In this chapter, Dimmesdale is portrayed as a completely different person from the time he arrived to the forest and when he leaves. He is full of life and is being tormented by his sin much less than before. He is so excited and relieved about the plan to leave for Europe that he can barely contain himself. He speaks to several people and uses all of his willpower to hold himself back from telling everyone his plans, but is also able to write a better sermon, one without the taint of his misery.
Predictions
Now that Chillingworth is extremely suspicious of Dimmesdale's actions, I think that he will find out about the minister's plans and decide to sell out who the father of Pearl is. He also might decide to take out his anger on Pearl or Hester by hurting them or taking Pearl away.
Chapter 21
Imagery
Hawthorne describes another public gathering, but this time it is a celebration of the installation of a new governor, rather than a public shaming. This compares to the beginning of the book because although it is meant to be a happy moment, Chillingworth, like he did in the first public gathering, makes the situation much worse for Hester.
Character Behavior
Hester starts off extremely excited and relieved to finally be leaving her place of shame, but this is all ruined when it is announced that Chillingworth will travel with the ship as well to serve as the physician for the passengers. Chillingworth is found by Hesterto be grinning because he knows what her plans were and also knows that he is ruining them.
Predictions
It is hard to figure out what may happen next, but soon Dimmesdale and Chillingworth will be put face to face over the sin that Hester committed. Next, I think that Chillingworth will further ruin the two's plans by taking away Pearl or telling everyone of the ministers connection with Hester, tearing the two apart and destroying the plans of leaving together that they had.
Chapter 22
Imagery/Symbolism:
Mistress Hibbins may represent Hester's second thoughts about fleeing overseas with Dimmesdale. As she was already put off by the strength he seemed to show int he marketplace, Mistress Hibbins then proceeds to tell her how the Devil is Pearl's real father.
Interesting Passages:
" 'Now, what mortal imagination could conceive it?' whispered the old lady confidentially to Hester. 'Yonder divine man! That saint on earth, as the people uphold him to be, and as--I must needs say--he really looks! Who, now, that saw him pass in the procession, would think how little while it is since he went forth out of his study--chewing a Hebrew text of Scripture in his mouth, I warrant--to take an airing in the forest! Aha! we know what that means, Hester Prynne! But truly, forsooth, I find it hard to believe him the same man. Many a church member saw I, walking behind the music, that has danced in the same measure with me, when Somebody was fiddler, and, it might be, an Indian powwow or a Lapland wizard changing hands with us! That is but a trifle, when a woman knows the world. But this minister. Couldst thou surely tell, Hester, whether he was the same man that encountered thee on the forest path?'" Page 212-213
Character Behavior or Psychology:
Pearl barely recognizes Dimmesdale int he marketplace, although she had seen him just the other day in the forest. Once she recognizes him, she expresses to Hester that she is compelled to kiss him in return for the kiss on the forehead he had given her int he forest. Hester scolds her and makes it clear that she cannot do that.
Chillingworth invites Hester and Pearl to board the ship alone, as he will make separate plans to have Dimmesdale board after his sermon.
Predictions/ Questions:
Why would Chillingworth want to have Hester and Pearl board the ship separately from Dimmesdale?
Will Pearl kiss Dimmesdale, and if so, will it have any significance?
Chapter 24
Imagery
The fact that many people saw different things the day that Dimmesdale died casts a little bit of doubt on whether or not he actually bore the Scarlet Letter on his chest. Since Chillingworth's purpose was to destroy Dimmesdale, now that he is dead, Chillingworth no longer has a purpose and he too dies. At the beginning, both Hester and Dimmesdale each had a Scarlet Letter on their chest, one hidden and one known, but at the end, they share a gravestone with a single A on it.
Character Behavior
Chillingworth loses his purpose in life and due to this dies. This leaves Pearl a vast inheritance, but for some reason both she and Hester disappear, most likely to show that they got away from their place of shame as well as the place of death of Dimmesdale.
Interesting Passages
"Leaving this discussion apart, we have a matter of business to communicate to the reader. At old Roger Chillingworth’s decease (which took place within the year), and by his last will and testament, of which Governor Bellingham and the Reverend Mr. Wilson were executors, he bequeathed a very considerable amount of property, both here and in England, to little Pearl, the daughter of Hester Prynne. "
Brenna Gradus
Max Linden
Chapter 1
SymbolismChapter 1
Symbolism toc
Interesting Passages
Chapter 2
Symbolism
Interesting Passages
Questions and Predictions
Other
Chapter 3
Symbolism
Interesting Passages
Questions and Predictions Chapters 1-3
Chapter 7
Imagery/ Symbolism
Character Behavior
Interesting Passages
Chapter 8
Imagery/Symbolism
Character Behavior
Questions:
Chapter 9
Imagery/ Symbolism:
Character Behavior or Psychology:
Interesting Passages:
Questions/ Predictions:
Other:
Chapter 10
Symbols
Character Behavior
Meaningful Quotes
Questions
Chapter 14
Imagery
Character Behavior
Interesting Passages
Predictions
Chapter 15
Character Behavior
Interesting Passages
Questions
Chapter 16
Imagery/ Symbolism
Character Behavior
Interesting Passages
Predictions/ Questions:
Chapter 17
Imagery/ Symbolism:
Character Behavior or Psychology:
Interesting Passages:
Questions/ Predictions you have:
Chapter 18
Imagery/Symbolism:
Interesting Passages:
Character Behavior or Psychology:
Chapter 19
Character Behavior or Psychology:
Questions/ Predictions you have:
Chapter 20
Imagery/ Symbolism
Character Behavior
Predictions
Chapter 21
Imagery
Character Behavior
Predictions
Chapter 22
Imagery/Symbolism:
Interesting Passages:
Character Behavior or Psychology:
Predictions/ Questions:
Chapter 24
Imagery
Character Behavior
Interesting Passages
The rose bush represents the small amount of hope that is present in the people at the prison, even though the prison itself represents the lack of hope in the people during their imprisonment. This shows a transcendental belief that nature is holy and it connects with people.Table of Contents
Interesting Passages
The rust on the ponderous iron-work of its oaken door looked more antique than any thing else in the new world. Like all that pertains to crime, it seemed never to have known a youthful era. Before this ugly edifice, and between it and the wheel-track of the street, was a grass-plot, much overgrown with burdock, pig-weed, apple-peru, and such unsightly vegetation, which evidently found something congenial in the soil that had so early borne the black flower of civilized society, a prison. But, on one side of the portal, and rooted almost at the threshold, was a wild rose-bush, covered, in this month of June, with its delicate gems, which might be imagined to offer their fragrance and fragile beauty to the prisoner as he went in, and to the condemned criminal as he came forth to his doom, in token that the deep heart of Nature could pity and be kind to him. (Page 40)Chapter 2
Symbolism
The scaffold represents the humility and consequences in which people must endure for committing sins.The Scarlet Letter represents the reputation Prynne has made for herself.
Interesting Passages
“Had there been a Papist [a Catholic] among the crowd of Puritans, he might have seen in this beautiful woman, so picturesque in her attire and mien, and with the infant at her bosom, an object to remind him of the image of Divine Maternity, which so many illustrious painters have vied with one another to represent; something which should remind him, indeed, but only by contrast, of that sacred image of sinless motherhood, whose infant was to redeem the world.” –Page 47 “The scene was not without a mixture of awe, such as must always invest the spectacle of guilt and shame in a fellow-creature, before society shall have grown corrupt enough to smile, instead of shuddering, at it.” –Page 47Questions and Predictions
The father of Hester Prynne’s child will most likely be revealed at some point in the story.If any, what other public humility will Hester Prynne be forced to endure?
Will the women who criticized Prynne be relevant in the rest of the story? If so, how?
Other
People in modern times, especially celebrities and other public figures, are constantly being forced to endure public humiliation; such as in the cases of figures such as Tiger Woods and Elliot Spitzer.Chapter 3
Symbolism
Reverend Dimmesdale is a symbol of justice and compassion, as he is the only official who seems to view Hester as a human being.Interesting Passages
“Speak, woman!” said another voice, coldly and sternly, proceeding from the crowd about the scaffold. “Speak; and give your child a father!”“I will not speak!” answered Hester, turning pale as death, but responding to this voice, which she too surely recognized. “And my child must seek a heavenly Father; she shall never know an earthly one!” (pg 57)
Questions and Predictions Chapters 1-3
Mr. Prynne will find the father and publicly shame him, much like Mrs. Prynne was.Why does Mr. Prynne want to publicly shame the father of his wife’s new baby? What does he hope to accomplish by doing so?
What will happen to Mrs. Prynne and what effect did the public shame that she faced have on her and the on looking people?
Does Mrs. Prynne have anybody who is on her side?
What does the dark prison and the beautiful rose bush foreshadow?
Why is the Scarlet letter so elegant if it’s purpose is to shame her?
Since Divine Maternity is referred to, do you think that someone will have pity on her because of this religious belief?
Why is Hester not selling out the father of her baby? Where do you think he is and what do you think the father is doing?
Chapter 7
Imagery/ Symbolism
The governors servant shows the burden that Hester is suffering from. The serf was born as a free Englishmen, but is now being forced to serve for 7 years as a slave. Hester was born free in England as well, but now she is suffering by being a "slave" because she cannot do what she wants, but is controlled by the demands of the governor, who wants to take away Pearl.The armor shows the reflection of Hester, in which the Scarlet letter seems to completely block out her appearance, and the letter becomes very exaggerated. This shows Hester and the reader that the letter is the most dominating feature of Hester and blocks out her true self.
Character Behavior
During this chapter, Hester seems to be in her own train of thought, examining her surroundings, the house of the governor. She is thinking a lot about the governor as a person and how he has become not only a governor, but a soldier and a ruler. Pearl on the other hand, seems to be fascinated by her surroundings, and doesn't understand the circumstances that she is in. She takes a lot of interest in the armor that was in the house because she could see her mothers reflection is it, where the Scarlet Letter was exaggerated and took over the image.Interesting Passages
Hester looked, by way of humoring the child; and she saw that owing to the peculiar effect of this convex mirror, the Scarlet Letter was represented and exaggerated and gigantic proportions, so as to be greatly the most prominent feature of her appearance. In truth she seemed absolutely hidden behind it... (Page 90)Chapter 8
Imagery/Symbolism
During chapter 8, Pearl shows that she can almost sense the "good guys" and the "bad guys". First off, Pearl "sensed" that there was something not right in the room she was in and attempted to escape out of a window. Next, she shunned the governor because he was trying to separate her from her mother and went to Dimmesdale because he was helping the two stay together. He also called her a blessing from God, as well as a curse.Character Behavior
Pearl, throughout the chapter shows her intuition, even though she is so young, and can understand what is happening without understanding the words completely. Hester becomes desperate to keep her child and begs Dimmesdale to help her. Although the governor wants to take Pearl away, Dimmesdale speaks on her behalf and convinces the other two, besides the governor to let them stay together.Questions:
What will Dimmesdale's role in the rest of the story be?What will the governor try to do in order to take Pearl away?
Chapter 9
Imagery/ Symbolism:
Roger Chillngworth and Reverend Dimmesdale are opposite symbols representing science and logic on Chillingowrth’s part, and religion and spirituality on Dimmesdale’s. also, Dimmesdale’s physical condition represents his mental and emotional state as well; in ill health.Character Behavior or Psychology:
As Reverend Dimmesale is in ill health and will not marry, Roger Chillingworth, regarded as a respected doctor in Boston, proposes to live with him and take him under his wing. The towns people, additionally, begin to realize that Chillingworth is taking on a more sinister look as time passes.Interesting Passages:
"Roger Chillingworth - the man of skill, the kind and friendly physician - strove to go deep into his patient's bosom, delving among his principles, prying into his recollections, and probing everything with a cautious touch, like a treasure-seeker in a dark cavern. Few secrets can escape an investigator, who has opportunity and license to undertake such a quest, and skill to follow it up. A man burdened with a secret should especially avoid the intimacy of his physician." Page 114Questions/ Predictions:
The evil the towns people are beginning to see in Doctor Chillingworth may begin to show in Chillingworth’s actions towards the Reverend in their home. In addition, Chillingworth’s interactions with Dimmesdale may reveal both of their past sins.
Other:
It seems that time and time again if two people both have committed some sort of wrong doing, they are more likely to reveal what it is they have done if they know another has committed as well. I also think many people can most likely relate with Reverend Dimmesdale with concern to the fact that he is experiencing debilitating guilt from keeping his sin a secret where as although Hester is experiencing humiliation from her sin being exposed, she does not need to endure the feeling of guilt.Chapter 10
Symbols
In Chapter Ten, Roger Chillingworth represents the “Black Man,” or Devil, as he is out for revenge against the father of Hester’s child. Throughout this chapter, he becomes more and more suspicious that the man is Dimmesdale himself, and he begins to purposely make to reverend suffer.Character Behavior
As the title suggests, Roger Chillingworth is considered to be a “leech” because of the way he latches on the Dimmesdale and won’t let go. At first, he is trying to help Dimmesdale, using medicines and potions to try to cure him, similar to how actual leeches were used as a remedy for sick patients during this time. But later on, after Chillingworth begins to realize that Dimmesdale is the father of Hester’s baby, he becomes more and more destructive and tries to torture Dimmesdale mentally until he can’t bear it anymore.Meaningful Quotes
"Come away, mother! Come away, or yonder old Black Man will catch you! He hath got hold of the minister already. Come away, mother, or he will catch you! But he cannot catch little Pearl!" (pg. 123)Questions
What did Chillingworth find on Dimmesdale’s chest?Why did it make him so happy?
Will Dimmesdale ever realize who the doctor really is?
Do you think Dimmesdale will ever confess his sin to the public?
Chapter 14
Imagery
In this chapter, Dimmesdale and Hester are finally shown together with a more intimate connection than before. For the first time you can see the relationship between the two and the love that they both have. It is also referred to that the two do not see their actions as a sin, but more as a natural action. When Hester brings up the idea of running away, Dimmesdale is filled with joy.Character Behavior
Hester finally shows her love for Dimmesdale and is able to be outright with it, rather than hide. She is finally alone and away from everybody, so her and Dimmesdale can finally talk about their relationship. Dimmesdale rejoices when Hester brings up the idea of leaving for Europe, but when Hester removes the letter from her chest, Pearl fails to recognize her.Interesting Passages
"Do with him as thou wilt! There is no good for him,- no good for me,- no good for thee! There is no good for little Pearl! There is no path to guide us out of this dismal maze!" (Page 151)Predictions
I predict that Chillingworth will find out about the plan for Hester and Dimmesdale to run away and will try to stop it. I feel that his way of stopping it will have to do with hurting or capturing Pearl.Chapter 15
Character Behavior
Pearl is the only character in the story besides Hester and Dimmesdale themselves who has discovered the connection between them. Pearl knows that her mother’s scarlet letter and Reverend Dimmesdale’s clutching of his heart are linked together, although she doesn’t know how.Interesting Passages
“Let men tremble to win the hand of woman, unless they win along with it the utmost passion of her heart! Else it may be their miserable fortune, when some mightier touch than their own may have awakened all her sensibilities, to be reproached even for the calm content, the marble image of happiness, which they will have imposed upon her as the warm reality.” Chapter 15Questions
Why does Pearl make her own letter “A” out of grass?Will Pealr figure out what the connection between her mother and Dimmesdale is?
Chapter 16
Imagery/ Symbolism
"The road, after the two wayfarers had crossed from the Peninsula to the mainland, was no other than a foot-path. It straggled onward into the mystery of the primeval forest. This hemmed it in so narrowly, and stood so black and dense on either side, and disclosed such imperfect glimpses of the sky above, that, to Hester's mind, it imaged not amiss the moral wilderness in which she had so long been wandering. The day was chill and sombre. Overhead was a gray expanse of cloud, slightly stirred, however, by a breeze; so that a gleam of flickering sunshine might now and then be seen at its solitary play along the path. This flitting cheerfulness was always at the further extremity of some long vista through the forest. The sportive sunlight--feebly sportive, at best, in the predominant pensiveness of the day and scene--withdrew itself as they came nigh, and left the spots where it had danced the drearier, because they had hoped to find them bright."
The sunlight that seems to avoid Hester represents the sin-free soul she does not possess. This symbol of light and dark remains evident with concern to the fact that the minister is referred to the "Black Man" by Hester, with reference to his guilt and sin.
Character Behavior
Although Pearl is coming to have the notion that the "Black Man" may have left his mark on the minister (who, in reality, is the "Black Man"), Hester continues to hide the minister's significance from Pearl.Interesting Passages
“Mother,” said little Pearl, “the sunshine does not love you. It runs away and hides itself, because it is afraid of something on your bosom. . . . It will not flee from me; for I wear nothing on my bosom yet!” -Page 180
Predictions/ Questions:
Sooner than later, Chillingworth, as well as Pearl will discover the significance of the Reverend Dimmesdale, be it via Hester or not.
Is the minister actually Pearl's father, or is Nathaniel Hawthorne just making it seem so as to keep the reader from knowing the true identity of her father until a later point in the story?
Chapter 17
Imagery/ Symbolism:
"Gathering himself quickly up, he stood more erect, like a man taken by surprise in a mood to which he was reluctant to have witnesses. Throwing his eyes anxiously in the direction of the voice, he indistinctly beheld a form under the trees, clad in garments so sombre, and so little relieved from the gray twilight into which the clouded sky and the heavy foliage had darkened the noontide, that he knew not whether it were a woman or a shadow." -Page 166"Arthur Dimmesdale put forth his hand, chill as death, and touched the chill hand of Hester Prynne. The grasp, cold as it was, took away what was dreariest in the interview. They now felt themselves, at least, inhabitants of the same sphere." -Page 167
Hester calling the minister by his first name, Arthur, symbolizes the intimacy between both she and Dimemsdale, which, prior to this chapter was unknown to the reader. Additionally, the fact that Dimmesdale finds comfort with his face on the Scarlet Letter represents the way in which he and Hester have accepted their actions as, not a sin, but as an act of nature.
Character Behavior or Psychology:
Hester and Dimesdale no longer see their affair as a sin, but rather an act that must have happened in the name of nature. For the first time in the story, the intimacy between the two is revealed. Although Hester did not want to flee Boston at the beginning of the book, she has now changed her mind as she and Dimmesdale want to flee to Europe with Pearl to live as a family in peace.Interesting Passages:
" 'You wrong yourself in this,' said Hester, gently. 'You have deeply and sorely repented. Your sin is left behind you, in the days long past. Your present life is not less holy, in very truth, than it seems in people's eyes. Is there no reality in the penitence thus sealed and witnessed by good works? And wherefore should it not bring you peace?' "-Page 168" 'O Arthur,' cried she, 'forgive me! In all things else, I have striven to be true! Truth was the one virtue which I might have held fast, and did hold fast through all extremity; save when thy good,—thy life,—thy fame,—were put in question! Then I consented to a deception. But a lie is never good, even though death threaten on the other side! Dost thou not see what I would say? That old man!—the physician!—he whom they call Roger Chillingworth!—he was my husband!' "
Questions/ Predictions you have:
Will Chillingworth and the townspeople learn that Dimmesdale is the father of Pearl? Will they dismiss Dimmesdale since he has contributed so much to the community or will they judge him even more harshly because he is regarded as a role model of a man?Will Hester and Dimmesdale tell the public themselves of the sin Dimmesdale has committed, or, will the townspeople discover it on their own?
Chapter 18
Imagery/Symbolism:
The shedding of the scarlet letter represent the new freedom Hester will have from his public shame and Dimmesdale will have from his guilt once they move to Europe."So speaking, she undid the clasp that fastened the scarlet letter, and, taking it from her bosom, threw it to a distance among the withered leaves. The mystic token alighted on the hither verge of the stream. With a hand’s breadth farther flight it would have fallen into the water, and have given the little brook another woe to carry onward, besides the unintelligible tale which it still kept murmuring about. But there lay the embroidered letter, glittering like a lost jewel, which some ill-fated wanderer might pick up, and thenceforth be haunted by strange phantoms of guilt, sinkings of the heart, and unaccountable misfortune." -Page 177
Interesting Passages:
"Thus, we seem to see that, as regarded Hester Prynne, the whole seven years of outlaw and ignominy had been little other than a preparation for this very hour. But Arthur Dimmesdale! Were such a man once more to fall, what plea could be urged in extenuation of his crime? None; unless it avail him somewhat, that he was broken down by long and exquisite suffering; that his mind was darkened and confused by the very remorse which harrowed it; that, between fleeing as an avowed criminal, and remaining as a hypocrite, conscience might find it hard to strike the balance; that it was human to avoid the peril of death and infamy, and the inscrutable machinations of an enemy; that, finally, to this poor pilgrim, on his dreary and desert path, faint, sick, miserable, there appeared a glimpse of human affection and sympathy, a new life, and a true one, in exchange for the heavy doom which he was now expiating."- Page 176"“Do I feel joy again?” cried he, wondering at himself. “Methought the germ of it was dead in me! O Hester, thou art my better angel! I seem to have flung myself—sick, sin-stained, and sorrow-blackened—down upon these forest-leaves, and to have risen up all made anew, and with new powers to glorify Him that hath been merciful! This is already the better life! Why did we not find it sooner?” -Page 177
Character Behavior or Psychology:
As Hester sheds the scarlet letter, the sunshine, which has previously been symbolic of being sin-free, covers the forest. She lets down her hair and throws the letter, showing that she is no longer ashamed of her supposed sin and that she is now sin-free herself.Chapter 19
Character Behavior or Psychology:
Pearl refuses to approach Hester and Dimemsdale until Hester replaces the scarlet letter on her chest. This may be so as Pearl has only ever known her mother with the sin pinned to her chest.Questions/ Predictions you have:
Will Pearl learn to accept her mother without her wearing the the scarlet letter?Can Pearl and Dimmesdale become comfortable with each other?
Chapter 20
Imagery/ Symbolism
Although obvious to the reader, Chillingworth still does not know if Dimmesdale knows his true identity and decides not to ask Dimmesdale outright if he knows his identity.Character Behavior
In this chapter, Dimmesdale is portrayed as a completely different person from the time he arrived to the forest and when he leaves. He is full of life and is being tormented by his sin much less than before. He is so excited and relieved about the plan to leave for Europe that he can barely contain himself. He speaks to several people and uses all of his willpower to hold himself back from telling everyone his plans, but is also able to write a better sermon, one without the taint of his misery.Predictions
Now that Chillingworth is extremely suspicious of Dimmesdale's actions, I think that he will find out about the minister's plans and decide to sell out who the father of Pearl is. He also might decide to take out his anger on Pearl or Hester by hurting them or taking Pearl away.Chapter 21
Imagery
Hawthorne describes another public gathering, but this time it is a celebration of the installation of a new governor, rather than a public shaming. This compares to the beginning of the book because although it is meant to be a happy moment, Chillingworth, like he did in the first public gathering, makes the situation much worse for Hester.Character Behavior
Hester starts off extremely excited and relieved to finally be leaving her place of shame, but this is all ruined when it is announced that Chillingworth will travel with the ship as well to serve as the physician for the passengers. Chillingworth is found by Hesterto be grinning because he knows what her plans were and also knows that he is ruining them.Predictions
It is hard to figure out what may happen next, but soon Dimmesdale and Chillingworth will be put face to face over the sin that Hester committed. Next, I think that Chillingworth will further ruin the two's plans by taking away Pearl or telling everyone of the ministers connection with Hester, tearing the two apart and destroying the plans of leaving together that they had.Chapter 22
Imagery/Symbolism:
Mistress Hibbins may represent Hester's second thoughts about fleeing overseas with Dimmesdale. As she was already put off by the strength he seemed to show int he marketplace, Mistress Hibbins then proceeds to tell her how the Devil is Pearl's real father.Interesting Passages:
" 'Now, what mortal imagination could conceive it?' whispered the old lady confidentially to Hester. 'Yonder divine man! That saint on earth, as the people uphold him to be, and as--I must needs say--he really looks! Who, now, that saw him pass in the procession, would think how little while it is since he went forth out of his study--chewing a Hebrew text of Scripture in his mouth, I warrant--to take an airing in the forest! Aha! we know what that means, Hester Prynne! But truly, forsooth, I find it hard to believe him the same man. Many a church member saw I, walking behind the music, that has danced in the same measure with me, when Somebody was fiddler, and, it might be, an Indian powwow or a Lapland wizard changing hands with us! That is but a trifle, when a woman knows the world. But this minister. Couldst thou surely tell, Hester, whether he was the same man that encountered thee on the forest path?'" Page 212-213
Character Behavior or Psychology:
Pearl barely recognizes Dimmesdale int he marketplace, although she had seen him just the other day in the forest. Once she recognizes him, she expresses to Hester that she is compelled to kiss him in return for the kiss on the forehead he had given her int he forest. Hester scolds her and makes it clear that she cannot do that.Chillingworth invites Hester and Pearl to board the ship alone, as he will make separate plans to have Dimmesdale board after his sermon.
Predictions/ Questions:
Why would Chillingworth want to have Hester and Pearl board the ship separately from Dimmesdale?Will Pearl kiss Dimmesdale, and if so, will it have any significance?
Chapter 24
Imagery
The fact that many people saw different things the day that Dimmesdale died casts a little bit of doubt on whether or not he actually bore the Scarlet Letter on his chest. Since Chillingworth's purpose was to destroy Dimmesdale, now that he is dead, Chillingworth no longer has a purpose and he too dies. At the beginning, both Hester and Dimmesdale each had a Scarlet Letter on their chest, one hidden and one known, but at the end, they share a gravestone with a single A on it.Character Behavior
Chillingworth loses his purpose in life and due to this dies. This leaves Pearl a vast inheritance, but for some reason both she and Hester disappear, most likely to show that they got away from their place of shame as well as the place of death of Dimmesdale.Interesting Passages
"Leaving this discussion apart, we have a matter of business to communicate to the reader. At old Roger Chillingworth’s decease (which took place within the year), and by his last will and testament, of which Governor Bellingham and the Reverend Mr. Wilson were executors, he bequeathed a very considerable amount of property, both here and in England, to little Pearl, the daughter of Hester Prynne. "