Honors American Lit.
The Scarlet Letter ch.7-11
Chapter 7: “The Governor’s Hall”
1. Characterization (details that create understanding of a character’s motivations, desires, physical & emotional traits, etc.)
a. Explain the way Hester and Pearl are dressed when they pay a visit to Govenor Bellingham’s house.
b. Explain how this visual imagery helps characterize both Hester and Pearl.
c. Explain the significance of the following quote: "There was a fire in her [Pearl] and throughout her; she seemed the unpremeditated
offshoot of a passionate moment."
d. Explain the significance of the following quote: “Thou must gather thine own sunshine. I have none to give thee!”
Chapter 8: “The Elf-Child and the Minister”
1. Characterization (author’s portrayal of character) / Mood (atmosphere) / Theme (a lasting statement or message)
Consider Pearl’s actions towards Dimmesdale after he saves her from being taken away from Hester. How does Pearl show that she
understands what he has done for her?
2.
Symbol (an object or idea that represents itself and an idea beyond itself)
When Dimmesdale comments about Pearl, he mentions that she needs no “witch’s broomstick to fly withal.” What does this tell us
about Dimmesdale’s impression of Pearl? What does it reveal about his character?
Chapter 9: “The Leech”
1. Conflict (creates emotional and psychological tension within characters and between characters)
a. Find a quote that hints to an internal struggle within Chillingworth.
b. Explain the moral and spiritual questions that surround Chillingworth.
c. How might Chillingworth’s close relationship with Dimmesdale hurt Chillingworth’s spiritual journey?
Chapter 10: “The Leech and His Patient”
1. Imagery (vivid or figurative language used to create a strong sensory experience for the reader) / Simile (a comparison of two
unlike things using like or as)
a. Identify examples of imagery and simile and explain how Hawthorne’s use of these devices help to change the reader’s perception of
Chillingworth and his intentions towards Dimmesdale.
b. What language does Hawthorne use to describe the mysterious discovery found on Dimmesdale’s body? Explain why the author
chooses to reveal so little about this discovery.
2.
Mood (atmosphere)
a. What does the following quote reveal about Dimmesdale’s feelings towards Chillingworth: "But who art thou, that meddlest in this
matter?-that dares thrust himself between the sufferer and his God?"
b. When Chillingworth discovers something on Dimmesdale’s body, he throws his hands in the air stomps his feet on the floor. How
does this dramatic action change the atmosphere from the beginning of the chapter?
Chapter 11: “The Interior of a Heart”
1. Characterization (author’s portrayal of character) / Theme (a lasting statement or message)
a. Dimmesdale's reaction to his sin is not based on helping others like Hester's. Explain how it is different and what it tells us about
Dimmesdale’s character.
b. Take a moment to compare both Dimmesdale and Chillingworth to someone in modern history. Explain the connections you are
drawing between these two men and the people you feel may resemble them in present society.