The Scarlet Letter Chapter 16 Flashcards

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Questions and Answers

What does Hester try to do for Dimmesdale?

Inform him about the true identity of Chillingworth.

How does Hester try to tell Dimmesdale about Chillingworth?

By going on his frequent walks along the shore or through the woods.

Which apostle did Dimmesdale travel to see the day before?

John Eliot who preaches to Native Americans.

Who does Hester take with her to see Dimmesdale?

Pearl. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose behind Hester's travel?

To see Dimmesdale on his return home. Signup and view all the answers

While on the narrow path, what happens?

Flickers of sunlight break through the gray clouds. Signup and view all the answers

According to Pearl, what does the sunlight epitomize?

She claims that the sunlight is running away from the letter on her mother's bosom. Signup and view all the answers

What could the sunshine also symbolize about Pearl?

That she's full of innocence and her mother is not. Signup and view all the answers

What does Pearl want to know about?

The Black Man. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Pearl want to know about the Black Man?

If her mother dealt with him and if the letter is his mark. Signup and view all the answers

Under Pearl's questioning, how does Hester respond?

She confesses that it's true. Signup and view all the answers

Who told stories to Pearl about the Black Man?

The Old Dame in the chimney-corner. Signup and view all the answers

According to the old dame, who is on the Black Man's list?

Madame Hibbins. Signup and view all the answers

Once they've reached a certain point in the forest, what do Pearl and Hester do?

They sit on a luxuriant heap of moss. Signup and view all the answers

Once footsteps are heard, what does Hester do?

She sends Pearl away for safety. Signup and view all the answers

How does Pearl respond to the footsteps?

Is it the Black Man or is Dimmesdale covering the Black Man's sign on his chest with his hand? Signup and view all the answers

Who is the mysterious person?

Dimmesdale. Signup and view all the answers

How does Dimmesdale appear?

Haggard and feeble as he moves without any desire or purpose. He is holding his hand over his heart. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Hester and Dimmesdale's Encounter

Hester attempts to inform Dimmesdale about Chillingworth's true identity, highlighting her desire to protect him.
She engages with Dimmesdale during her frequent walks along the shore and through the woods to communicate her concerns.
Hester brings Pearl with her when she seeks to discuss important matters with Dimmesdale.

Dimmesdale’s Recent Activities

Dimmesdale visited John Eliot, an apostle known for preaching to Native Americans, indicating his spiritual engagements.

Symbolism of Nature

On the path to the meeting, Hester experiences flickers of sunlight breaking through gray clouds, symbolizing fleeting hope.
Pearl perceives the sunlight as something that avoids Hester's letter, suggesting it represents innocence and joy that Hester is deprived of.

Pearl's Curiosity

Pearl questions Hester about the Black Man, expressing her interest in the dark figure that symbolizes temptation.
She seeks to understand if her mother's relationship with the Black Man is connected to the scarlet letter on Hester's bosom.
Hester acknowledges the truth of Pearl's inquiry about the Black Man, revealing the acceptance of her own shame.

Community Lore

An old dame tells Pearl stories about the Black Man, linking him to characters like Madame Hibbins, illustrating societal views on sin and morality.

The Forest Meeting

Upon reaching a serene forest location, Hester and Pearl rest on a lush patch of moss, indicating a temporary escape from their societal struggles.
When they hear approaching footsteps, Hester impulsively sends Pearl away, prioritizing her safety.

Dimmesdale's Entrance

Pearl is uncertain whether the visitor is Dimmesdale or the Black Man, positioned to question the nature of Dimmesdale's hidden sins.
Dimmesdale appears haggard and feeble, moving with purposelessness while covering his heart, symbolizing his internal torment and the weight of his guilt.

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Description

Test your knowledge of key events and definitions from Chapter 16 of 'The Scarlet Letter'. This quiz covers Hester's attempts to reveal the truth about Chillingworth to Dimmesdale, along with other important elements of the chapter. Perfect for reinforcing your understanding of the text.