Chapter 13 Summary and Analysis
Hester is upset by the minister’s deteriorating health. She feels she must get close to him, but she must be careful about it. Her situation is very different now than it was when she was first branded with the scarlet letter. It has been seven years, and the Puritans are much kinder to her than they used to be. As the narrator says, the human heart “loves more readily than it hates.”
Hester’s new, virtuous life has charmed the Puritans. She has suffered bravely without complaining, and they respect that. In fact, she does so much good work that some people refuse to believe the A stands for adultery. Others are slower to change their opinions (such as the magistrates and wealthy men of Boston). Hester herself seems stripped of her vitality. Her rich, luxuriant hair is hidden. Her clothes are plain. Consequently, she seems cold and passionless (prized qualities among Puritans, in those days). If not for Pearl, the narrator says, Hester might’ve been like Anne Hutchinson—the leader of a religious sect.
Hester has spent the last seven years ruminating on the nature of existence and what it means to be a woman in a Puritan society. When she sees Reverend Dimmesdale on the scaffold, she lets go of that train of thought. Dimmesdale needs her help. She decides to confront Chillingworth.
Allusions
Metaphor
Symbols
Themes
Expert Q&A
In Chapter 13 of The Scarlet Letter, why is Hester's beauty diminished and what could restore it?
What is the meaning of this quote from chapter 13 of The Scarlet Letter?
"It is remarkable, that persons who speculate the most boldly often conform with the most perfect quietude to the external regulations of society"
This quote from Chapter 13 highlights the contrast between internal thoughts and external behavior. It suggests that individuals who entertain bold or unconventional ideas often maintain a facade of conformity to societal norms. In the context of The Scarlet Letter, Hester Prynne, despite her radical inner thoughts and struggles, outwardly conforms to the expectations of her Puritan community, concealing her true feelings and maintaining a quiet demeanor.
In The Scarlet Letter chapter 13, how has the "A" freed Hester?
In Chapter 13, the "A" frees Hester by transforming her from a sinner into a respected figure due to her good deeds and penitence. The community forgives her, and the letter, once a symbol of shame, now imparts a sacredness akin to a nun's cross. This allows Hester a unique freedom from societal expectations, enabling her to define her own identity and role within the community, an uncommon achievement for a Puritan woman.
In chapter 13 of The Scarlet Letter, which statement about Hester is NOT true?
Get Ahead with eNotes
Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.
Already a member? Log in here.