The Scarlet Letter Chapter Analysis

Questions and Answers

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?

He wants to leave with Hester and Pearl so they can live as a family.

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?

It is dark until they reunite, then we see the sunlight. Signup and view all the answers

Why would children dislike Dimmesdale?

Children are the most perceptive in the novel and would dislike him for not being honest with himself. Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'estranges' mean?

No longer does or affect to someone. Signup and view all the answers

What does 'machination' refer to?

A craft scheme or plot. Signup and view all the answers

What does 'citudel' mean?

A strong hold. Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'iteathen' mean?

A person who does not belong to a religion. Signup and view all the answers

What does 'dennizen' mean?

Found in a particular place or region. Signup and view all the answers

What does the word 'trammelec' mean?

Deprive of freedom of action. Signup and view all the answers

What does 'breach' refer to?

An act of breaking or failing to observe a law, rule, or code of conduct. Signup and view all the answers

What does 'solace' mean?

Comfort or consolation in a time of distress or sadness. Signup and view all the answers

What does 'subjugate' mean?

Bring under domination or control, especially by conquest. Signup and view all the answers

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.

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.