Chapters 15-17
Relationships and attitudes are changing. How has Hester changed her attitude toward Roger
Chillingworth? Describe the developing relationship between Hester and Pearl. What is
Hawthorne’s purpose in developing this relationship? Use at least 3 quotes for support.
Chapters 15-17
Look at Hawthorne’s use of light and dark. Pull out as many specific quotes and textual
references as you can find. What purpose does this symbolic archetype serve in the text?
Chapters 15-17
Why must Hester speak to Arthur Dimmesdale in the woods? Use a quote. What is symbolic
about the setting of the woods? What positive significance does the forest take on? What
negative significance does the forest take on?
Chapters 15-17
Translate the conversation between Hester and Arthur Dimmesdale when they are reunited in
the woods for the first time in years. Use modern-day language or act it out with a script.
INFERENCE QUESTIONS …
- What do you think Chillingworth saw on Dimmesdale’s chest and why?
- Why did Chillingworth call out to Dimmesdale when he was on the scaffold? Why did he use
sleepwalking as an excuse?
- How do you think the glove got on the scaffold? Why was it essential that Hawthorne include
the glove?