The Scarlett Letter

The Scarlet Letter

Published in 1850, set in the 1600s.

What are the two places always part of every town?

A cemetery and a prison.

What grows outside the prison door and what does it symbolize?

A rosebush; symbolizes hope and resilience.

Where do people gather to watch public punishments?

The marketplace.

Who is most interested in Hester Prynne’s punishment?

The women; they think her punishment is not harsh enough.

What is Hester’s punishment?

She must wear the scarlet 'A' on her chest.

What alternative punishments do the women suggest for Hester?

Branding her forehead, death, or replacing the embroidered 'A' with a rag.

What important event takes place during Chapter 2?

The first scaffold scene.

How does Hester try to use Pearl during her punishment?

As a shield to cover the 'A,' but realizes it is a mistake.

To whom is Hester ironically compared?

The Virgin Mary.

What does Hester think about while standing on the scaffold?

Her past, including her happy childhood and financial struggles.

What man from Hester’s past does she think about?

An old, pale, thin, scholarly man, slightly deformed.

Who does Hester recognize in the crowd while on the scaffold?

A man with one shoulder higher than the other — her husband.

What does the stranger in the crowd say about the identity of Pearl’s father?

'He will be known.'

What theme begins to emerge in Chapter 3?

Revenge.

Who is Reverend Wilson?

An old and wise minister who delivers a long sermon about Hester’s sins.

Who is Reverend Dimmesdale?

A young, highly respected minister, well-educated, with engaging sermons.

What is Dimmesdale’s message to Hester?

To share her secret so the sinner can be saved from shame.

Who is Chillingworth?

Hester’s husband; believes both he and Hester have hurt each other.

What does Chillingworth plan to do?

Keep his identity secret and uncover the identity of Pearl’s father.

What does Hester think about Chillingworth?

She believes he is the devil.

Why does Hester remain in Boston?

She feels tied to the place where she committed her sin.

Where does Hester live after her release?

In an isolated cottage on the outskirts of town.

How does Hester support herself and Pearl?

By doing needlework (sewing).

What types of sewing jobs is Hester never hired for?

Making a wedding veil for a bride.

How does Hester dress compared to Pearl?

Hester wears plain clothes; Pearl wears flamboyant dresses.

How do the townspeople treat Hester’s needlework?

They accept and use it but scorn her personally.

How do children treat Hester?

They repeat their parents’ cruel phrases and insult her.

How do strangers react to Hester?

They stare at her and the scarlet letter.

What name does Hester give her daughter?

Pearl.

Why is Hester worried about Pearl?

She fears Pearl may be punishment for her sin.

How does Hester dress Pearl?

In elaborate, fancy clothing.

How is Pearl described in the novel?

As beautiful, radiant, and almost otherworldly.

How does Pearl differ from other children?

She is described as elfish and unique.

What does Pearl’s name symbolize?

Something valuable, obtained at great price.