Chapter 19 Summary and Analysis
Hester tells Dimmesdale that he will learn to love Pearl as her father. He has been afraid of showing any affection or special consideration toward her, because of their situation, but he must admit that she’s a beautiful child. For the first time, he and Hester look upon her together as her parents. Hester calls Pearl over to speak to Dimmesdale, but Pearl hesitates. For seven years, Pearl has been her mother’s only companion, and she’s confused by the sudden presence of Dimmesdale in their lives. Instead of heeding her mother’s call, she stands on the opposite side of the brook, staring at her parents. Seeing the scarlet letter in the grass, Pearl points at Hester’s chest, furious. Pearl stamps her feet and throws a terrible tantrum until Hester finally picks up the scarlet letter and pins it to her clothes. “Now thou art my mother indeed!” Pearl cries, as if she didn’t recognize her mother without the letter.
Finally, Pearl comes to her mother’s side, kissing Hester, then kissing the scarlet letter. Dimmesdale likewise kisses Pearl on the forehead, but Pearl, jealous of his relationship with Hester and irritated by his refusal to stand with them in public that day, runs to the brook and washes off the kiss. This is the end of their “interview,” which can be thought of as an audition where Dimmesdale and Pearl try out the roles of father and daughter.
Personification
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Expert Q&A
What is the significance of the repeated references to Pearl's reflection in the brook in chapter 19 of The Scarlet Letter?
The repeated references to Pearl's reflection in the brook in Chapter 19 highlight the separation between Hester and her daughter. The brook symbolizes a natural barrier, reflecting Pearl's purity and innocence, which contrasts with Hester's scarlet letter. Pearl's hesitation to cross without Hester wearing the letter emphasizes the deep association she has with it. This scene underscores the challenge Hester faces in trying to move on, as Pearl serves as a reminder of her past.
What was the first time Pearl was kind to Dimmesdale, according to his statement in Chapter 19?
What question does Pearl ask Hester in chapter 19 of The Scarlet Letter after learning of the minister's love?
In Chapter 19 of The Scarlet Letter, Pearl asks Hester if Reverend Dimmesdale will publicly acknowledge his love for them by taking their hands and walking together into town. This question reflects Pearl's desire for Dimmesdale to demonstrate his commitment and love openly. Her inquiry highlights her understanding of the situation and the significance of public acknowledgment for their family unit.
What tone does chapter 19 of The Scarlet Letter end with?
Chapter 19 of The Scarlet Letter ends with a tone of gloom and melancholy. Hester's beauty fades as she replaces the scarlet letter on her bosom, symbolizing the return of her shame and sin. Reverend Dimmesdale's secret sin continues to weigh on him, marked by his hand over his heart. Pearl, embodying the consequence of their sin, distances herself, while the forest and brook symbolize the burden of their secrets.
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