The Scarlet Letter (and other stories)

Welcome to my blog.  I have been a big fan of Nathaniel Hawthorne's work for many years.  In addition to writing The Scarlet Letter, Hawthorne is also the author of The House of the Seven Gables, Fanshawe, and numerous short stories.  His work is often dark and mysterious.

I hope you enjoy my blog and that, after reading The Scarlet Letter, you will explore more of Hawthorne's writing.  Join the millions of people who, like me, are enchanted by this complex man and his work!


Homework Questions on Chapter Ten ("The Leech and His Patient")

1. Why does the narrator refer to Chillingworth as a leech? What does he do that is similar to a leech?

2. What simile does the narrator use to describe Chillingworth's attempts to learn what is in Dimmesdale's heart?

3. In what respect is it true that all Chillingworth seeks (looks for) is death and decay (rotting)?

4. Why do you think Dimmesdale is becoming paranoid (unnaturally suspicious of people)?

5. Where did Chillingworth obtain the dark flabby leaf he had in his laboratory?

6. Why is that symbolic?

7. According to Dimmesdale, when and to whom should a man reveal the secrets of his heart?

8. How does Chillingworth rebut (answer) his argument?

9. Chillingworth notes that there are men who confess their wrongdoing during their lifetimes. According to Dimmesdale, why do others choose not to?

10. How does Pearl react when she sees Rev. Dimmesdale looking out the window?







Homework Questions on Chapters Eleven and Twelve (to page 231)

1. What does Chillingworth see when he pushes aside Rev. Dimmensdale's robe?
2. How does the narrator describe Chillingworth after he makes this discovery? What power does he hold over Dimmesdale?
3. How do the townspeople feel about Dimmesdale?
4. What paradoxical effect does their admiration have on him?
5.Are Dimmesdale's expressions of self-condemnation successful? Why/Why not?
6. Where does Dimmesdale go to relieve his suffering?
7. How do you explain his actions? Can he really expect to feel better?
8. Why does the narrator call his behavior a "masquerade"?

Is Chillingworth justified in seeking out Hester's lover? Why?

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

Homework for Chapter Seven

1. In what ways are Hester and Rev. Dimmesdale different in the woods? (Note: your answer should touch on the symbolic importance of the woods in this novel.)
2. What does Hester advise Dimmesdale to do in order to get rid of Chillingworth?
3. Do you think her advise is practical or realistic?
4. What does she mean when she tells Dimmesdale "You will not go alone"?
5. What occurs when Hester throws away her scarlet letter?
6. We have seen, again and again, how Pearl hurts Hester's feelings by treating the scarlet letter like a toy. What does she do when she sees Hester's dress without the scarlet letter?
7. Why does Pearl insist that Hester continue to wear the scarlet letter? Haven't the people of Boston decided that Hester does not have to wear it anymore?
8. Why does Pearl wash off Dimmesdale's kiss? How has he disappointed her (again)?
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