The Scarlet Letter Group

Question:

nikkishein
nikkishein
Student
High School - 11th Grade

In Chapter 8 of The Scarlet Letter, why does Hester feel that Dimmesdale should speak on her behalf? THANKS FOR ALL THE HELP (:

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Posted by nikkishein on Monday October 26, 2009 at 5:41 PM and tagged with chapter 8, dimmesdale, hester, scarlet letter, the scarlet letter.

Answers:

  1. mshurn
    mshurn Teacher
    College - Freshman

    eNotes Editor

    This is the very dramatic scene in which Hester's continued custody of her child is questioned on the grounds that she may not be a fit mother to rear Pearl in the teachings of the church. Hester believes that Pearl may be taken from her, and the idea is unbearable to her. She tries to speak for herself, then in fearful desperation, she turns to Dimmesdale for support. She knows that as the minister, his words will have more weight than hers, and she knows that he alone understands her love for Pearl. Also, as Pearl's father, who has accepted no responsibility for the sin that he and Hester commited, Dimmesdale owes her his support in this, at least. There is an unspoken moment between Hester and Dimmesdale, but she has made it clear in her words and in her expression that she expects him to keep this disaster and further punishment from happening to her. Dimmesdale then speaks on Hester's behalf, and Pearl remains with her mother.

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    Posted by mshurn on Monday October 26, 2009 at 10:06 PM