Podcast
Questions and Answers
Under the appellation of Roger Chillingworth, who has he hidden his part from?
Under the appellation of Roger Chillingworth, who has he hidden his part from?
Everyone except Hester.
How does Chillingworth disguise himself in Boston?
How does Chillingworth disguise himself in Boston?
As a doctor.
Why is Chillingworth called a 'leech'?
Why is Chillingworth called a 'leech'?
Doctors used leeches to draw out bad blood.
Why does the narrator compare Chillingworth to a miner?
Why does the narrator compare Chillingworth to a miner?
Why is Chillingworth admired by people?
Why is Chillingworth admired by people?
What additional knowledge does Chillingworth possess?
What additional knowledge does Chillingworth possess?
Why does Chillingworth have knowledge of Native remedies?
Why does Chillingworth have knowledge of Native remedies?
What was Dimmesdale considered by the people?
What was Dimmesdale considered by the people?
Dimmesdale becomes Chillingworth's?
Dimmesdale becomes Chillingworth's?
What happens to Dimmesdale's health?
What happens to Dimmesdale's health?
What is Dimmesdale's belief about his inevitable death?
What is Dimmesdale's belief about his inevitable death?
What is a sign of Dimmesdale's terrible health?
What is a sign of Dimmesdale's terrible health?
What does Dimmesdale refuse to do?
What does Dimmesdale refuse to do?
Who ends up living with Dimmesdale?
Who ends up living with Dimmesdale?
According to the passage, how is Dimmesdale described?
According to the passage, how is Dimmesdale described?
Where do Dimmesdale and Chillingworth stay?
Where do Dimmesdale and Chillingworth stay?
Dimmesdale's walls were filled with?
Dimmesdale's walls were filled with?
How does Chillingworth use his room?
How does Chillingworth use his room?
What have townspeople inferred about Chillingworth?
What have townspeople inferred about Chillingworth?
What do people claim Chillingworth was involved in?
What do people claim Chillingworth was involved in?
How has Chillingworth's visage changed?
How has Chillingworth's visage changed?
What do the people think Chillingworth is?
What do the people think Chillingworth is?
Study Notes
Roger Chillingworth
- Chillingworth conceals his identity from everyone except Hester Prynne.
- He disguises himself as a doctor in Boston, allowing him access to the community.
- Referred to as a "leech" due to the historical use of leeches in medicine to draw out bad blood; this reflects his role in extracting secrets.
- His character is likened to a miner, suggesting he delves into the depths of others’ hearts and souls to uncover hidden truths.
Reputation and Skills
- Chillingworth is highly regarded by the townspeople due to limited access to medical care.
- He possesses significant knowledge of herbal medicine, having learned native remedies during his captivity by Native Americans.
Dimmesdale Relationship
- Reverend Arthur Dimmesdale is seen by the community as a divinely appointed leader, destined for a long service.
- Dimmesdale's health deteriorates over time, reflecting his inner turmoil and guilt.
- Dimmesdale believes his potential death would be a consequence of his own unworthiness, highlighting his struggles with self-worth.
- He often places his hand over his heart, signaling the torment of his concealed sin.
Living Arrangements
- Chillingworth moves in with Dimmesdale, taking on the role of continued spiritual and psychological support.
- They reside in a widow's home located near a graveyard, symbolizing the proximity to death and moral decay.
- Dimmesdale's room is adorned with tapestries illustrating the biblical tale of David and Bathsheba, reinforcing themes of sin and guilt.
Chillingworth's Transformation
- Over time, Chillingworth's reputation changes; townspeople speculate about his shady past and connections to criminal activity.
- Some even claim he was implicated in the murder of Sir Thomas Overbury's mother.
- His appearance becomes increasingly ominous, leading people to believe he embodies Satan or acts as Satan’s agent.
Themes of Guilt and Identity
- Dimmesdale refuses to marry, which further complicates his internal conflicts and illustrates his dedication to his pastoral mission despite personal failings.
- The evolution of Chillingworth's character showcases the corrupting influence of revenge and obsession within the narrative.
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Description
Test your knowledge of Chapter 9 from 'The Scarlet Letter' with these flashcards. Explore key terms, character disguises, and symbolism related to Roger Chillingworth. This quiz provides insight into the hidden motives and actions within the narrative.
