Editor's Choice
Why do Hester and Pearl visit the forest, and what almost causes an argument between Hester and Dimmesdale?
Quick answer:
Hester and Pearl visit the forest to privately warn Dimmesdale about the threat posed by Chillingworth, as Dimmesdale will be passing through there on his return from visiting Native Americans. An argument almost ensues when Hester reveals Chillingworth is her husband, angering Dimmesdale, who blames Hester for his troubles. This angers Hester, highlighting the disparity in their social consequences. Pearl's insights about light and darkness underscore the chapter's themes.
Hester and Pearl go to the forest because Hester is determined to warn Dimmesdale of the threat Chillingworth poses. She travels to the forest because she knows Dimmesdale will be returning that way from visiting the Indians (Native Americans). It will provide a private place for them to talk unobserved.
Hester and Dimmesdale quarrel because Hester reveals to him that Chillingworth is her husband. This makes Dimmesdale angry, and he begins to criticize and blame Hester for his troubles, which in turn makes her angry, as he, unexposed and still high status, has gotten off easily compared to her.
Light and dark are important to this chapter, as are the insights of little Pearl, who sees a darkness associated with Hester's scarlet letter and also with Dimmesdale. She can perceive, as others cannot, that Dimmesdale is somehow implicated in her mother's "crime." As Pearl notes of Hester:
Mother... the sunshine does not love you. It runs away and hides itself, because it is afraid of something on your bosom ...
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.