Scarlet Letter Chapter 13 Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is significant about Hester's position in the community now that years have passed?

The general public had a sense of respect for Hester now that it was a few years later and she had served her punishment gracefully.

Compare the feelings of the general public to those of the community leaders regarding Hester Prynne. Explain why the groups view her differently.

The general public had forgiven her and started acting kind towards her, but the community leaders had taken longer to forgive her due to their prejudices.

What social and philosophical changes is Hawthorne describing in this chapter?

Hawthorne described the social change of forgiveness and the philosophical belief that Hester's sin was a blessing in disguise that led to good deeds.

Explain the statement: 'It is remarkable that persons who speculate the most boldly often conform with the most perfect quietude to the external regulations of society.'

It is ironic that the world's most bold thinkers often end up being the quiet people in society. Signup and view all the answers

Compare the initial intent behind the scarlet letter to the actual effect on Hester.

The initial intent was to label Hester as an adulteress, but it instead led her to have a positive outlook and contribute positively to society. Signup and view all the answers

What is Hawthorne's point in comparing Hester's and Dimmesdale's reactions to their sin?

Hawthorne shows how sin destroyed a person, with Hester finding relief through public acknowledgment while Dimmesdale suffers in silence. Signup and view all the answers

What image is Hawthorne evoking with Chillingworth, old, one shoulder higher than the other, digging up roots in the forest?

The image represents evil and the devil, reflecting Chillingworth's decaying personality and association with witchcraft. Signup and view all the answers

What does Hester resolve to do and why?

Hester resolved to help free Dimmesdale from Roger Chillingworth because she felt he was destroying her lover. Signup and view all the answers

What is the definition of 'pauper'?

A very poor person who has no money to pay for food, clothing, etc. Signup and view all the answers

What is the definition of 'chasm'?

A major division, separation or difference between two people, groups, etc. Signup and view all the answers

What is the definition of 'imbibe'?

To drink (something) Signup and view all the answers

What is the definition of 'despot'?

A ruler with total power, often cruel and unfair Signup and view all the answers

What is the definition of 'semblance'?

A state of being somewhat like something but not truly or fully the same Signup and view all the answers

What is the definition of 'ethereal'?

Resembling heaven, seeming to belong to another world Signup and view all the answers

What is the definition of 'gibe'?

To utter taunting words Signup and view all the answers

What is the definition of 'foliage'?

The leaves of a plant or of many plants Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Hester's Position in the Community

Public respect for Hester has grown over the years as she has accepted her punishment gracefully.
Initial stigma has faded, reflecting a shift in community attitudes towards her.

Community Leaders vs. General Public

The general public has shown kindness and forgiveness towards Hester, facilitating her integration into society.
Community leaders maintain longstanding prejudices, leading to a slower process of forgiveness.

A social shift is evident in the common acceptance of forgiveness for Hester’s sin.
Philosophically, some believe Hester's sin was beneficial, leading her to perform good deeds.

Irony in Bold Thinkers

The quote highlights the irony that loud thinkers can comply quietly with societal norms.
Hester's bold thoughts contrast with her restrained actions due to concerns for her daughter Pearl.

Scarlet Letter: Intent vs. Impact

Originally, the scarlet letter symbolized Hester's adultery and was intended as punishment.
Instead of becoming a burden, the letter led Hester to become charitable and actively contribute to society.

Comparison of Hester and Dimmesdale

Hester’s public acknowledgment of her sin allows her some relief, unlike Dimmesdale, whose secret sin torments him.
The narrative illustrates how public shame can lead to personal growth, while secret guilt can be destructive.

Chillingworth's Imagery

Chillingworth’s depiction in the forest symbolizes evil and moral decay.
His actions of gathering roots resemble witchcraft, reinforcing his role as a malevolent figure in Puritan society.

Hester's Resolution

Hester decides to help Dimmesdale escape Chillingworth’s destructive influence.
She feels empowered to act for Dimmesdale’s welfare, recognizing Chillingworth’s harmful grasp.

Vocabulary Highlights

Pauper: Indicates extreme poverty, highlighting socioeconomic issues in society.
Chasm: Represents deep divisions within society or between individuals, symbolizing differing perspectives.
Imbibe: Relates to the act of drinking, often used metaphorically to address ideas or experiences.
Despot: Refers to an oppressive ruler, evoking themes of power and control.
Semblance: Suggests superficial similarities, hinting at deeper underlying differences.
Ethereal: Describes otherworldly qualities, linking to themes of purity and morality.
Gibe: Reflects on the nature of ridicule in society, particularly towards those who deviate from norms.
Foliage: Symbolizes nature and life, juxtaposed against the background of Puritanical attitudes.

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Description

Test your knowledge on Chapter 13 of 'The Scarlet Letter' with these flashcards. Explore Hester Prynne's evolving role in the community and the differences in perception between the general public and community leaders. Dive deep into themes of respect and judgment.