The Scarlet Letter Chapters 14-17 Quiz

Study Notes

Chapter 14 Summary

Hester Prynne confronts Roger Chillingworth, urging him to stop tormenting Arthur Dimmesdale.
Encounter at the riverbank highlights Chillingworth's sarcastic comment about removing Hester's scarlet "A."
Hester asserts that only God can remove her shame, emphasizing the letter's spiritual significance.
Hester reveals to Chillingworth that he is Dimmesdale's secret tormentor, deepening the emotional conflict.
Chillingworth descends into pure malice, reflecting on his transformation from a good man to a vengeful figure.
An intense argument unfolds where they blame each other for their tragic fates.

Chapter 15 Summary

Hester grapples with feelings of hatred toward Chillingworth while searching for Pearl.
Pearl creatively uses seaweed to fashion her own "A," symbolizing her connection to her mother's shame.
Hester asks Pearl about the letter's meaning, but Pearl does not understand its significance.
Pearl relates the letter to Dimmesdale's gestures, recognizing the symbol without its inherent meaning.
Hester chooses not to disclose the truth to Pearl, though Pearl's curiosity persistently tugs at her.

Chapter 16 Summary

Hester vigilantly awaits Dimmesdale in the woods, eager to disclose Chillingworth's identity.
Pearl's inquisitive nature surfaces as she questions the link between the "black man" and Hester's letter.
Pearl overhears remarks about the letter being a mark of the "black man," linking D to darkness.
Hester vehemently denies Pearl's suggestion that Dimmesdale could be the "black man."
Pearl raises the possibility of Dimmesdale's heartache resulting from the "black man’s" influence.

Chapter 17 Summary

In a secluded woodland meeting, Hester confides in Dimmesdale about Chillingworth's true identity.
Dimmesdale reacts with discontent, blaming Hester for his ongoing torment and suffering.
The couple reconciles, recognizing Chillingworth as the true antagonist of their lives.
A shared fear arises as they contemplate the possibility of public exposure by Chillingworth.
They fantasize about escaping to Europe as a united family with Pearl, envisioning a new life.

Chapter 18 Summary

The hope of European escape rejuvenates both Hester and Dimmesdale, rekindling joy in Dimmesdale's heart.
Hester removes her scarlet letter, symbolizing a temporary liberation from her shame.
With Hester's beauty reborn, sunlight embraces her, signifying her emotional and spiritual rebirth.
There is an eagerness for Pearl to meet her father, highlighting family aspirations for reconnection.

Chapter 19 Summary

Hester calls Pearl to join them across the river, but Pearl initially hesitates.
Hester's reinstatement of the scarlet letter signifies a regression to her previous state of shame.
Pearl embraces Hester and the scarlet letter, demonstrating an innocent acceptance of her mother’s burden.
Hester encourages Pearl to acknowledge Dimmesdale, who expresses reluctance to return to town together.
Pearl rebuffs Dimmesdale’s kiss, symbolizing her rejection of his unspoken ties to shame and sorrow.

Description

Test your knowledge of key events and themes in The Scarlet Letter, focusing on chapters 14 through 17. Explore Hester's decisions, the significance of the scarlet A, and the connection between Hester, Dimmesdale, and Pearl. Dive into their shared dreams and pivotal moments as you analyze this classic work.