Questions and Answers
What is Hester's decision regarding Chillingsworth in chapter 14?
Hester decides to tell Chillingsworth to stop tormenting the minister Dimmesdale.
What does Hester say about the scarlet A in chapter 14?
Hester says that the A can only be removed by God.
What does Pearl do with seaweed in chapter 15?
Pearl makes an A out of seaweed on her chest.
What is the significance of the A when Pearl connects it to Dimmesdale?
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What does Hester reveal to Dimmesdale in chapter 17?
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What dream do Hester and Dimmesdale share in chapter 17?
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How does Hester feel after she throws off her scarlet letter in chapter 18?
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What causes Pearl to hesitate in crossing to her parents in chapter 19?
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What is Pearl's reaction when Dimmesdale declines to return to town hand in hand?
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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.
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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.
