Character Analysis
What secret does Chillingworth suspect about Dimmesdale?
That he is Pearl's father.
What does the meteor symbolize in Chapter 12?
The letter "A" and Dimmesdale's guilt
Why does Chillingworth move in with Dimmesdale?
What theme does Dimmesdale's suffering represent?
The consequences of unconfessed sin
Who says, "Thou shalt not go alone!"
Hester, to Dimmesdale
How does Dimmesdale punish himself?
Fasting, whipping, and self-torment
How does the scaffold serve as a symbol?
It represents public confession and redemption.
Why does Dimmesdale climb the scaffold at night?
To privately punish himself
How does Chillingworth embody the theme of revenge?
He dedicates his life torturing Dimmesdale instead of moving on.
Who is described as "a leech" and why?
Chillingworth, because he sucks the life from Dimmesdale
How does Chillingworth change physically and mentally?
He becomes darker, more vengeful, and more demonic.
How has the meaning of Hester's scarlet letter changed in the community?
What does Hester do in Chapter 14 that shows her growing independence?
She decides to confront Chillingworth about his revenge.
How does the novel explore the theme of identity?
Hester redefines herself despite society's label.
What is Dimmesdale referring to when he says, "The weight of a thousand untrue words"?
His insincere sermons
She believes she made him into a monster.
What does Pearl symbolize in relation to Dimmesdale?
His hidden sin and conscience
How does the community view Dimmesdale by Chapter 14?
As a holy and suffering saint
What does Hawthorne suggest about redemption?
It requires confession and true repentance.
Who says, "I have already told thee what I am! A fiend!"
Chillingworth, revealing his transformation
How does Pearl react to Dimmesdale's refusal to acknowledge her in public?
She refuses to accept his love until he does.
How does light and darkness function as symbols in the novel?
Light represents truth and exposure; darkness represents secrecy and guilt
How does Pearl behave toward Dimmesdale when he won't stand with them publicly?
She rejects his affection and refuses to kill him.
How does the novel critique Puritan society?
By showing its hypocrisy and harsh judgment
What does Pearl say about the scarlet letter when Dimmesdale refuses to stand with them?
She asks if he is ashamed of them.