The Scarlet Letter
Chapter 1 Worksheet
A prison was built by the settlers of a colony to protect against the
perpetrators of their Utopian society. (perfect)
The entrance to the prison was a heavy oaken door with iron bindings.
It was rusted and worn with age.
In front of the uninviting door, there was a grassy patch with uninviting
weeds.
However, in this disturbing atmosphere, there was a rose bush. It
stood on one side of the door offering some relief from the troubles one might
face upon entering the prison, or perhaps it would welcome a prisoner as they
returned to society.
It may have been placed there by Anne Hutchinson, the sainted. In
whatever way it was brought about, it’s there, nevertheless giving hope in the
midst of peril. (danger)
1. When does this story take place?
2. What group ruled the colony where the story takes place?
3. What kind of society were the Puritans trying to make?
4. What does Utopian mean?
5. What was in front of the ugly, antique prison door?
6. What is the function of the rose bush?
7. What does peril mean?