The Scarlet Letter: Chapter 9 Flashcards

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Questions and Answers

Under the appellation of Roger Chillingworth, who has he hidden his part from?

Everyone except Hester.

How does Chillingworth disguise himself in Boston?

As a doctor.

Why is Chillingworth called a 'leech'?

Doctors used leeches to draw out bad blood.

Why does the narrator compare Chillingworth to a miner?

He is presented as someone who digs into the interior of a heart to take out something precious. Signup and view all the answers

Why is Chillingworth admired by people?

The people have barely any access to proper health care. Signup and view all the answers

What additional knowledge does Chillingworth possess?

Native remedies such as herbs and roots. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Chillingworth have knowledge of Native remedies?

He was captured by Native Americans for a prolonged period. Signup and view all the answers

What was Dimmesdale considered by the people?

...a heavenly, ordained apostle, destined, should he live and labor for the ordinary term of life... Signup and view all the answers

Dimmesdale becomes Chillingworth's?

Spiritual guide. Signup and view all the answers

What happens to Dimmesdale's health?

His health goes downhill. Signup and view all the answers

What is Dimmesdale's belief about his inevitable death?

If Providence should see fit to remove him, it would be because of his own unworthiness to perform its humblest mission on Earth. Signup and view all the answers

What is a sign of Dimmesdale's terrible health?

When he places his hand over his heart. Signup and view all the answers

What does Dimmesdale refuse to do?

Marry a woman. Signup and view all the answers

Who ends up living with Dimmesdale?

Chillingworth. Signup and view all the answers

According to the passage, how is Dimmesdale described?

Was a true religionist and not a man of liberal views. Signup and view all the answers

Where do Dimmesdale and Chillingworth stay?

At a widow's home by a graveyard. Signup and view all the answers

Dimmesdale's walls were filled with?

Tapestries depicting the biblical story of David and Bathsheba and Nathan the Prophet. Signup and view all the answers

How does Chillingworth use his room?

As a laboratory. Signup and view all the answers

What have townspeople inferred about Chillingworth?

That Roger Chillingworth is a man with an infamous past. Signup and view all the answers

What do people claim Chillingworth was involved in?

Involved in the murder of Sir Thomas Overbury's mother. Signup and view all the answers

How has Chillingworth's visage changed?

Looks mysterious and malicious. Signup and view all the answers

What do the people think Chillingworth is?

Satan or Satan's emissary. Signup and view all the answers

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.