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Questions and Answers
What contrast does the narrator point out between Hester's and Dimmesdale's ability to leave town?
What contrast does the narrator point out between Hester's and Dimmesdale's ability to leave town?
Hester seems to have been waiting for a chance to flee and no one will question it, while people will question why Dimmesdale leaves.
Why does Dimmesdale decide to leave with Hester?
Why does Dimmesdale decide to leave with Hester?
He wants to leave with Hester and Pearl so they can live as a family.
What is significant about the title of the chapter?
What is significant about the title of the chapter?
It refers to the symbol of sunshine; Hester has finally admitted Dimmesdale is the father, allowing her to be in the sunlight.
How does Hawthorne reinforce his idea that nature is sympathetic with the union of Hester and Dimmesdale?
How does Hawthorne reinforce his idea that nature is sympathetic with the union of Hester and Dimmesdale?
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Why would children dislike Dimmesdale?
Why would children dislike Dimmesdale?
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What does the term 'estranges' mean?
What does the term 'estranges' mean?
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What does 'machination' refer to?
What does 'machination' refer to?
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What does 'citudel' mean?
What does 'citudel' mean?
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What does the term 'iteathen' mean?
What does the term 'iteathen' mean?
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What does 'dennizen' mean?
What does 'dennizen' mean?
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What does the word 'trammelec' mean?
What does the word 'trammelec' mean?
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What does 'breach' refer to?
What does 'breach' refer to?
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What does 'solace' mean?
What does 'solace' mean?
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What does 'subjugate' mean?
What does 'subjugate' mean?
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Study Notes
Key Themes and Character Dynamics
- Hester's punishment has led her to long for freedom, while Dimmesdale's status means his departure would be questioned, illustrating societal expectations.
- Dimmesdale's desire to leave with Hester and Pearl signals his wish for family unity and escape from guilt and shame.
Symbolism and Nature
- The chapter's title references sunshine, reflecting Hester's admission of Dimmesdale as Pearl's father, marking her emotional liberation and acceptance.
- Nature's transformation from darkness to sunlight upon Hester and Dimmesdale's reunion emphasizes the connection between personal redemption and natural harmony.
Children's Perception
- Children in the narrative are depicted as highly perceptive, leading to their aversion to Dimmesdale due to his dishonesty and internal conflict.
Vocabulary and Definitions
- Estranges: To no longer affect a person or thing.
- Machination: A crafty scheme or plot, often with devious intent.
- Citudel: A stronghold, representing safety or fortress-like security.
- Iteathen: A term for individuals who do not adhere to any religion.
- Dennizen: Refers to beings residing in a particular place or region, indicating belonging.
- Trammelec: To deprive someone of the freedom to act or move as they wish.
- Breach: An act of violating a law or code of conduct, significant in moral and societal contexts.
- Solace: A form of comfort or consolation during distress, central to themes of suffering and redemption.
- Subjugate: To bring under control or domination, often through conquest or suppression, relevant to themes of power and authority in relationships.
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Description
Explore the key themes and character dynamics in this quiz on 'The Scarlet Letter'. Analyze Hester and Dimmesdale's struggles with societal expectations, symbolism related to nature, and children's perceptions of their conflicts. Test your understanding of the vocabulary used in the chapter as well.
