This is an interesting chapter because the society’s view towards Hester takes a complete u-turn. The scarlet letter on her bosom is no longer taken for ‘ADULTERER’. They now take it for ‘ABLE’ something much more positive than the previous name it was associated with. I honestly didn’t see this coming I thought they’d torture her for life but their attitude is refreshing. Obviously there is a reason behind it and that’s because of Hester’s helpful nature. She goes the extra mile to comfort others. I feel like by being there for others she s trying to hide her loneliness. Hawthorne brings in the much needed positive atmosphere. Moreover Hester’s kind actions show her high level of patience which reflects on Puritan beliefs. Also another development is Pearl; she is now 7.Hester realizes that Chillingworth is slowly and secretly causing harm to Dimmesdale. As a result Hester decides to talk to the physician about Dimmesdale’s ailing health. Its not so surprising that Chillingworth turns out to be a backstabber because he didn’t seem to be the type of person to go away so easily without taking revenge. Last but not the least I am glad to see that Hester’s benevolent nature does reap her some rewards.
The letter was the symbol of her calling. Such helpfulness was found in her,—so much power to do, and power to sympathize,—that many people refused to interpret the scarlet A by its original signification. They said that it meant Able; so strong was Hester Prynne, with a woman's strength.
I find this important because I feel this is the turning point in the novel. Where at one point the society that shunned her has now starting to accept her. And they themselves have given a new meaning to the scarlet letter she wears upon her bosom.
The letter was the symbol of her calling. Such helpfulness was found in her,—so much power to do, and power to sympathize,—that many people refused to interpret the scarlet A by its original signification. They said that it meant Able; so strong was Hester Prynne, with a woman's strength.
I find this important because I feel this is the turning point in the novel. Where at one point the society that shunned her has now starting to accept her. And they themselves have given a new meaning to the scarlet letter she wears upon her bosom.
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