Vocabulary
What does the word "Vindicate" mean?
Vindicate: To clear of blame or suspicion; to justify.
Why does Hester feel an obligation to help Dimmesdale?
She believes she must help him by revealing Chillingworth's true identity and motive, even if it means exposing her own past. This obligation stems from a desire to alleviate his suffering and restore his peace of mind.
What does Hester's changing clothing symbolize?
Hester now wears somber and plain clothing penance and the sacrifice she has made for her sin. Her shift shows her continued internal struggle.
How does Hester react when she learns of the change in the townspeople's view of her?
While she is aware of this shift, she remains emotionally detached and does not allow it to fully comfort her, as she still feels the weight of her sin
What does the word "Zeal" mean?
Zeal: Great energy or enthusiasm in pursuit of a cause or an objective.
What does Chillingworth's continued torment of Dimmesdale reveal about him?
- Chillingworth's relentless pursuit of revenge against Dimmesdale reveals his own moral failings and his inability to forgive or let go of the past. His actions shows his obsession with vengeance, even to the point of causing immense suffering to others.
How does Pearl serve as a symbol in this chapter?
She represents Hester's sin as well as her redemption which we see is happening in these chapters.
What happens during Hester's conversation with Dimmesdale in the chapter?
They have a very important conversation in this chapter. Hester feels a strong desire to help him because she sees he's struggling with his internal feelings of guilt and sin. She offers him help to escape the burdens together.
What does the word "Affinity" mean?
Affinity: A natural attraction to or liking for a person, thing, or idea.
How has Hester's view of the scarlet letter changed?
Initially, the scarlet letter was a symbol of shame and punishment, but over time, Hester has come to view it as a badge of honor and a reminder of her strength and resilience.
What does Hester's hair symbolize in chapter 13?
Her hair, which she now keeps hidden, symbolizes her humility and suppression of her former self. By covering it, she removes one of her key features and beauty emphasizing her sacrifice.
What significant realization does Hester make in this chapter about her punishment?
She realizes that it was a source of personal strength and growth. She understands it has become most of her identify but respects that aspect.
What does the word "Erudition" mean?
Erudition: The quality of being learned; deep knowledge.
What is Hester's plan to expose Chillingworth?
Hester intends to reveal Chillingworth's true identity as her husband to the townspeople, which will expose his vengeful nature and his role in Dimmesdale's suffering.
How does Mistress Hibbins serve as a symbol?
She is a symbol of hidden sin and hypocrisy within the town
What does Hester reflect on regarding her relationship with Dimmesdale in the chapter?
She reflects on her deeping love for Dimmesdale and her desire to help him.
What does the word "Villify" mean?
Vilify: To speak ill of, defame.
What does Pearl's reaction to the scarlet letter reveal about her?
Her ability to see the symbol as something other than a mark of shame suggests that she is not bound by the societal expectations of her time.
How does the image of Hester standing on the scaffold represent?
It symbolizes the ongoing burden of Hester's post. The scaffold continues to represent the societal and personal consequences of her sin.
Hoe does the chapter reveal Hester's growing sense of independence?
She no longer relies on the townspeople for approval. She begins to really accept her identity and takes on the ask of helping Dimmesdale even though that might cause more friction with the townspeople if things go south.