Questions and Answers
They feel __________ enough to tackle the big issues.
strong
__________ of them have found peace.
Neither
He thinks it makes him a __________.
hypocrite
She has borne the __________ of their secret.
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She has never fallen out of _________ with him.
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She has ____________ Dimmesdale to live with the enemy.
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Dimmesdale doesn't ____________ he has the strength for it.
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It was like the first encounter in the world beyond the _______ of two spirits.
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He had no ________ in it.
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Your _____ is left behind you in the days long past.
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Of _________, I have had enough!
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Define 'penance'.
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Define 'penitence'.
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What is the problem with Dimmesdale's view on hidden secrets of sin?
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I could daily betake myself, and be known as the vilest of all sinners, methinks my soul might keep itself alive thereby. Even thus much of truth would save me!But now, it is all __________!
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In the ____________ of her own trouble, she left the minister to bear what she might picture to herself as a more tolerable doom.
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Define 'misanthropy'.
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Rather than have had this grievous wrong to __________.
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Then I consented to a __________.
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One worse than even the _________ priest!
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The burden of her ___________ and the minister the __________ _______ of his good name.
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There is not the strength or courage left me to venture into the wide, strange, difficult world __________!
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Study Notes
Encounter in the Woods
- Hester and Dimmesdale reunite in a secluded patch of woods, sharing small talk before addressing deeper issues.
- Both characters express a sense of emotional turmoil and questioning regarding their peace of mind.
Reflection on Peace
- Dimmesdale inquires if Hester has found peace, to which she responds with a bitter smile, indicating that neither has achieved peace.
- Dimmesdale reveals his self-loathing, feeling like a hypocrite despite his good deeds in the church, wishing he could openly share his sins.
Shared Burdens
- Hester reassures Dimmesdale that he is not alone in his struggles; she has carried the weight of their shared secret for seven years.
- Despite her public disgrace, Hester maintains her love for Dimmesdale unbroken.
Truth and Forgiveness
- Hester confesses that her former husband, Chillingworth, has been manipulating Dimmesdale, and she seeks forgiveness for this betrayal.
- Dimmesdale fears he lacks the strength to escape to a new life with Hester, but she insists on the possibility of leaving together.
Spiritual Connection
- Their meeting in the woods feels ethereal, raising doubts about their existence and emotional states, both feeling akin to ghosts.
- The physical contact between Dimmesdale and Hester provides a momentary connection that alleviates their distress, binding them as part of the same reality.
Inner Conflict
- Dimmesdale expresses deep despair, claiming he lacks faith in the good he appears to do and views himself as a ruined soul.
- Hester encourages him, stating that his past sins do not negate the holiness of his current life and actions.
Penance and Penitence
- Dimmesdale feels he has experienced enough penance but lacks genuine penitence, as he cannot free himself from his past.
- The struggle between external appearances and internal guilt continues to haunt him.
Consequences of Deception
- Hester laments her choice to deceive Dimmesdale regarding Chillingworth, stating that she would trade her life for the truth.
- She grapples with the weight of their shared guilt and Dimmesdale’s ruined reputation, which she feels responsible for.
Recognition and Connection
- Dimmesdale longs for a true acknowledgment of his sins, suggesting that honesty could restore his soul.
- The presence of Chillingworth serves as a constant reminder of their shared guilt and complicates Hester’s relationship with Dimmesdale.
Conclusion of the Encounter
- Hester and Dimmesdale hesitate to return to their respective lives, acknowledging the harsh realities awaiting them.
- Dimmesdale expresses a feeling of helplessness but ultimately chooses to face the future together with Hester, suggesting a glimmer of hope amidst despair.
Studying That Suits You
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Description
Test your understanding of Chapter 17 of 'The Scarlet Letter' with these flashcards. Engage with key concepts and vocabulary as Hester and Dimmesdale confront their struggles. Perfect for reviewing critical themes and character dynamics.
