Throughout your mind map presentations today, my ears and brain fought to keep pace with each other, one intent on taking in new ideas and the other trying to organize them in accordance with those already crowded in the folds of my cerebellum.
One idea mentioned that really caught my attention was the alter ego, a second personality that exists within one self. Most typically this might be associated with the doppelganger, ala Doctor Jekyll and Mister Hyde, but I don't think it has to be that obvious. Instead, on a more subtle level, consider the Revered Dimmesdale and Roger Chillingworth: both have outward personas that they willingly reveal to the public, but both have a hidden personality as well.
Well, maybe this applies more to Chillingworth than it does Dimmesdale. Chillingworth clearly hides his malice and desire for vengeance from the people of Boston: for all appearances he is the kindly although misshapen doctor who tends to the ailing health of their beloved reverend. Other than to Hester, his true intentions are never revealed.
You know, the more I consider it, I think that Dimmesdale escapes this condemnation: although he has a secret, no other heart drives his actions; in fact, it is his weighty conscience that punishes him inwardly and at the same time demands his outward humility. He even goes so far as to admit his sinful nature on the pulpit, something that Chillingworth never does. Furthermore, if what he says is to be believed, he resists admitting his sin because of the detrimental effect it might have on the faith of his parishioners, not because he fears any repercussions for himself.
As for Hester, I'm uncertain. Does she have an alter ego? She seems so stoic throughout her ordeal, stiff backed and unyielding against Puritan judgment. But then again, when she removes her cap in the safety of the forest she is flooded with softness and femininity. I'll have to think about this some more...
As always, I'm curious to hear what you are discovering. Write on, my friends!
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One of the groups today talked about how Hester and Dimmesdale handled their guilt differently. In my eyes Hester's courage and strength to endure scorn the of the Puritans really showed just how strong women can be.
Dimmesdale on the other hand was such a whimp. He didn't have the courage to stand up and admit his sin, he just bore the guilt silently (which made him feel even worse, I'm sure). Back during that time period women where seen as the weaker beings but Hester's ability and Dimmesdale's inability to survive the accusing eyes of the colonists really proves that, while men have physical strength, they have mental strength (which I think is a way better quality to have).
Colleen H. pd. 3
One of the groups today talked about the archetype 'initiation.' It's fitting yet surprising because from my viewpoint, being able to start over doesn't seem like much of a punishment. However, in Hester's case it is. Ironically, when people think of a fresh start, it's usually something positive; in Hester's case, it's the complete opposite.
The life that Hester begins in the novel is presumably very different from the life she had before. Prior to her affair with Dimmesdale, she could hide her sins and her wrongdoings. Now, her sin is publicly displayed to the rest of society. She cannot hide it, nor can she get rid of it. Her initiation on the scaffold wasn't meant to get her into something good or of worth (i.e. getting into a club/group in college). Instead, it was meant to lead to a life of shame and misery as is shown on pg. 46: "...and thereafter, for the remainder of her natural life, to wear a mark of shame upon her bosom."
On the other hand, Hester's initiation can be seen as positive- it marks the beginning of her life with her child, Pearl, whom she fears and loves at the same time. It also gives her and Dimmesdale a chance to try and work everything out. The archetype of 'initiation' leads to many possibilities for Hester, and even for Dimmesdale as he acted as her partner in the sinful act.
Jena K., Period 3
One thing that really struck me today was how one of the groups discussed age. They were referring to the women gossiping during Hester's public humiliation in chapter two. I had originally interpreted this scene as characterizing women, showing them as loud and gossipy. However, the more I think about it, their respective ages really shapes their opinions. The older women are depicted as merciless, pitiless, and altogether unfeeling. On the other hand, the younger woman quietly suggests a softer, more sympathetic approach to Hester's plight. This led me to question why their ages affected them in this way; perhaps the years of toil and drudgery in a harsh world, carving a life out of the wilderness had hardened the older women. Maybe the more mature women had stifled their emotions and passion because of the limits society and theology pressed on them. The younger woman didn't have as much experience with difficult issues, and this is what made her softer and more merciful. I found this approach very helpful in showing yet another aspect of the seemingly peripheral characters Hawthorne creates. Katie d. pd. 3
One epiphany that came to me today while sitting in class had to do with the relationship between Pearl and Dimmesdale. Throughout the novel I was convinced that Pearl would never be a "normal" child unless Dimmesdale came forward and then only maybe would she become normal. Though totaly unknowingly Dimmesdale was holding Pearl back. Then in the scene in witch Dimmesdale dies I was sure that Pearl would be freed because of his coming forth. Only now I realize that her evil may have been taken away by Dimmesdale, when he kissed her, as a parting gift of love. Perhaps it wasn't the secrecy that was holding Pearl back, but the lack of love. This was made up for in his parting gift. This was my epiphany today.
Kevin B. pd. 3
Two things struck me. First was the comment that seeking revenge was accepted in Puritan society. I don't claim to be an expert of puritan society, but something about that seemed wrong. Seeing as the Puritans emphasized the Bible, I assume "turn the other cheek" would come into play. Those two ideas conflict, and I feel inclined to side with what I thought I was fairly sure of. But, also, I'm haven't looked into it.
Also, the concept of alter-egos as an archetypes hadn't struck me at all until it was mentioned. However, Dimmesdale probably did a better job of concealing his other half than Chillingsworth, as some of the townsfolk still didn't believe he was Pearl's father even after he confessed, while they seemed to distrust Chillingsworth, as Dimmesdale appeared uneasy around him at times.
Theo G.; P.3
today while in class, i realized more about "economic" value of various things within the scarlet letter; not necessarily in a monetary view, however. first, Hester thought of pearl as her "sole treasure", because she had bought her with all that she had, all that she could have been. she was left with only her little "pearl" after the sin that she committed. second, is the value of the puritan religion to the society. i believe that they are near about one in the same. the society of the puritans was dominated extensively by the puritan faith, as one can realize through a single sin, resulting in public humiliation for the rest of her life. puritan religion and society depended upon each other. lastly, the value that Hester serves to society as a scapegoat. the bible says that all of us commit sin, therefore, Hester isnt the only sinner in the community. however, the other townspeople treat as if she IS the only sinner. in a sense, the other people excuse their sins for blaming and humiliating Hester for hers.
Dylan G. period 3
As the different groups continued to share today, I came upon an epiphany regarding Hester's appearance of weakness. Each group spoke about the different things that Hester suffered, such as guilt, pain, and ridicule. In all of these obstacles, Hester is shown as the pitiful victim and outcast of society. She is merely a target for society to shoot their arrows of judgement and scornfulness at. In addition, Hawthorne places Hester in isolation and makes her suffer loneliness. These factors all contribute to Hester's appearance as a weak woman that is overwhelmed with struggles. My view of Hester continued to be that until one group spoke about Hester being shown as strong. The group expressed that Hester had the endurance and vigor to take the beat of society, a rigorous and difficult thing to do. Furthermore, she also displayed her strength in dealing with her negative feelings and thoughts (such as guilt, pain... etc.). Hester does not let the feelings just eat away at her from the inside out, she works up enough strength to overcome them. It is now clear to me that Hawthorne included these hardships to not only show Hester as a suffering woman, but as a brave and strong woman that could overcome the most immense obstacles.
Chris G. Period 3
Okay so my epiphany involves good ol' Hester. One of the groups mentioned something about her passion and how it relates to her alienation from society. This triggered a thought in my mind: does the virtue of an individual lead to isolation? Throughout history, there have been instances where someone's greatest trait led to their downfall. Joan of Arc received a message on how to defeat the English from what she believes was God. After they got ahold of her, they burned her at the stake and condemned her as a witch. Her helpfulness and goodwill resulted in her death. Similarly, Hitler and his minions murdered the Jews, who in all actuality, posed no threat to him; because they stayed faithful to their religious beliefs, they were mercilessly exterminated. Anyway, Hester sucked it up and helped over people around her, which I guess constitutes some loyalty. Despite the negative impacts of her original sin, she eventually decides to fight it with all her power. Even when she helps others, there are some people who still frown upon her. She is trying to prove that she determines her fate and that no one could tell her what to do, including society. Unfortunately, the past can't be changed so her action will always exist. Nobody will fully accept her and see past her notoriety. She will always be known as the adulteress, no matter what. By performing good acts, she keeps herself in the spotlight and can never restore her integrity as long as she does not lay low.
-John m, period 3
My epiphany has to do with Hester and Pearl. Pearl is considered a Romantic charactcer in the story, which made emotion much more dominant over the bible or facts in her opinion and everyday life. The fact that Hester is Romantic as well, explains why she was so torn about her daughter having to grow up looking at the scarlet letter. Hesters emotions cause her to not be sure if Pearl is a gift or a sign of guilt, for bringing a baby into the world thhat is destined to be an outsider and looked down upon. I wasnt sure exactly what made Hester look at her baby this way unitl someone brought up the fact that both of thme were Romantic characters. Being a Romantic character caused her to look at the pros and cons of the situation, and not just the good or evil like the puritans.
Scott D. P.4
It surprised me when one of the groups talked about how Dimmesdale was a scapegoat. For me, I thought Hester was the scapegoat because the public nature of her punishment made her the object of disapproval and judgement. It gave the townspeople a chance to demonstrate their own piety by looking down on her. Rather than seeing their own potential sinfulness in Hester, the people only saw her as an adulterer. Unlike Hester, Dimmesdale never endured this public humiliation while people singled her out for wearng a letter “A” on her chest. Therefore, I do not believe he was a scapegoat since everyone respected and thought highly of him. To them, he embodied the perfect life of holiness and righteousness.
Joyce L.
When I first read Hawthorne's novel I assumed that Pearl and Chillingworth must be opposites. Pearl must represent good; Roger, evil. However, as I listened to the class presentations I began to discover that they might share more characteristics than I originally thought.
Pearl and Chillingworth each plague Hester and Dimmesdale with torment, guilt, and suffering. Pearl is Hester's greatest joy, but also a painful reminder of her sin. Peral constantly asks her mother what the scarlet letter means and why she wears it; she also doesn't think her mother is complete without the sin patched onto her dress. For example, while in the forest, Pearl kisses her mother's cheeks "[b]ut then - by a kind of necessity that always impelled this child to alloy whatever comfort she might chance to give with a throb of anguish - Pearl put up her mouth, and kissed the scarlet letter too" (Hawthorne 135)! This incessantly irks at the soul of Hester. Pearl rejects Dimmesdale by never accepting him until he admits his sin to the entire community. For example, in the brook scene when Dimmesdale tries to kiss Pearl she rushes over to the brook and washes it off her face. Chillingworth affects Hester by getting to Dimmesdale and threatening to make him suffer. Chillingworth, obviously, makes good on his promise and torments Dimmesdale in many ways. Chillingworth tries various techniques to persuade Dimmesdale to tell him that he is the fellow sinner with Hester. He even talks about secrets and how they pollute the soul in order to coax the reverend into admitting his sin. Chillingworth follows him around and makes sure that he suffers for what he has done.
Aspects of nature are also associated with both Chillingworth and Pearl. Pearl is often described as a creature of the wild and is depicted with beautiful aspects of nature. These include aspects such as the flowers that she decorates herself with. Chilingworth is a plant and herb gatherer, he is seen gathering various plants and weeds for his medicine.
Pearl and Chillingworth are similar in that they each cause the main characters trouble; however, they are different because of their intentions. Pearl is just curious and imaginative; she simply wants to understand. In contrast, Chillingworth seeks to intentionally harm as his own form of revenge. Another difference between Chillingworth and Pearl is their mindset. Pearl always tries to imagine a better life full of more adventure and freedom; however, Chillingworth dwells on sin and revenge. Our class discussion really helped me to realize that although the intentions and overall personalities of Pearl and Chillingworth are completely different, they still have some traits in common.
Kathleen Wahl, Period 3
Some of the groups said that the story was all rooted in the Scarlet Letter, but I would have to disagree. I think that the story is really rooted in Hester's ill fated marriage to the man who would become Roger Chillingworth. If Hester had never married Chillingworth basically all of the problems could have been avoided; namely, Hester could have married Dimmesdale and their "sin" would have been in committed wedlock and not have been a problem. Hester's marriage and infidelity is also what drives Chillingworth to large extremes for revenge. I think that Pearl has some sort of innate sense of the familial problems; she is constantly concerned with Hester, Dimmesdale, and her all acknowledging that they are a family. Pearl senses the incomplete and dysfunctional family which is the root of all of the problems.This might also explain why she imagines friends and people: she uses them to fill the holes in her own life. I feel that the scarlet letter is more of a product than a cause of many of the problems in the story.
Tommy W. period 3
One of the group’s discussion on the historical aspect of the novel really caught my attention. They looked at the history of the town rather than the time period the Puritans live. The people of the town had built the prison and the cemetery first. Through this decision, it shows that from the very beginning, Puritans had recognized that there will always be sin and death. As much as they valued purity, the people realized the inevitability of sin. The more I thought about this, the more I thought the construction of the first prison and cemetery connected with the motif of Fate throughout the book. Hester’s story started with the prison and ended with the cemetery. From the beginning, the setting of the story has made the fates of Hester, Chillingworth, and Dimmsdale inescapable. The history of the prison and cemetery further reinforced that fact.
Yawen R. Period 3
I completely agree with the idea that Chillingworth and Pearl are parallel characters. It is amazing how they both have the same effect on both Hester and Dimmesdale. Through the book I could see the pain that Hester and Dimmesdale went through by dealing with the other two characters, but I never realized that the other two had the same effect, until now! Pearl, the scarlet letter with life, caused the guilt unintentionally; Chillingworth, intentionally. Amazingly enough, with different mindsets, the two evoked similar feelings from Hester and Dimmesdale. Most likely because Pearl and Chillingworth were the living forms that constantly reminded the two lovers of their affair. This shows that you always have to live with consequences, unfortunately. Things you do in life and how you deal with problems shape who you are as a person.
-Kate D P3
Although I have always recognized that Pearl was an integral part to Hester's identity, I have failed to notice the power Pearl possesses over Hester. Not only is Pearl the physical embodiment of Hester's former sin, she indirectly acts as an incentive for Hester to avoid future sin.
After visiting the governor's mansion, Mistress Hibbins extends an invitation to Hester for her to visit the Black Man in the forest. However, Hester declines because she must take care of pearl; however, Hester informs Mistress Hibbins that if no longer had Pearl, she "would willingly have gone with thee into the forest, and signed [her] name in the Black Man's book, too and that with [her] own blood" (Hawthorne 79). If Pearl had not existed or had been taken away from Hester's care, Hester would have devoted her soul to the Devil; Pearl indirectly prevents Hester from committing the worst sin of all--aligning oneself with the Devil.
Furthermore, Pearl exerts her influence over Hester by refusing to allow her mother to escape from her past sin. After Hester and Dimmesdale decide to flee to Europe, Hester immediately removes her scarlet letter; however, Pearl refuses to acknowledge her mother until she wears the scarlet letter again. By removing her stigma, Hester essentially denies Pearl's existence, but Pearl adamantly defends her presence, thus never allowing her mother to erase her sin. Pearl's demand for her mother to continue wearing her scarlet letter foreshadows Hester and Dimmesdale's unsuccessful attempt to escape.
Ultimately, Pearl serves as a moral reminder for her mother to avoid sin. If Hester had devoted herself to the Black Man or fleed with Dimmesdale, she would have never been able to achieve redemption. Pearl's influence over mother accentuates the coexistence of good and evil and sin and redemption.
Annie W.
Period 3
My epiphany is about Roger Chillingworth and Pearl. One group talked about how Chillingworth and Pearl reminded Hester of painful subjects and memories and that they hurt Hester by bringing those up. Chillingworth didn't directly hurt Hester by talking to her or physcially hurting her, he slowly and painfully hurt Hester by staying close to Dimmesdale and letting Hester know that he will seek revenge. Pearl on the other hand stayed close to Hester and acted very strangely. She hurt Hester by not liking Dimmesdale at first and Pearl also hurt Hester by not recognizing Hester when Hester took off her scarlet letter. So both of them did something that would bring pain to Hester.
Shuja A. Pd-3
As the groups were talking, I really thought that the comparison between Ann Hutchinson and Hester Prynne was very interesting. I did not consider the two of them to be similar at all. After thinking about more, I realized that the two were both trying to free themselves from Puritanism. Both Ann Hutchinson and Hester Prynne became heroines in their own way. Hester committed a sin and struggled on in a society that did not accept what she had done. Although she had an option of leaving, she stayed behind and continued to live amongst people who condemned her. Ann Hutchinson tried to make a difference in a religion that she thought was wrong. She too was condemned for her "unusual" thinking. Both of these women became an example for women in their community.
Yasmine K, Period 3
During the group presentations on Friday, one of the groups mentioned something that i had not realized. The group mentioned that while the men of the puritan society were harsh, the women were harsher still. After Hester commited adultury, the men were content to have her wear a scarlet A for the rest of her life. The women on the other hand, wanted there to be a much harsher concept. The women of the society wanted Hester to be excecuted because she shamed them with her sin. After thinking about this, i realized that there is so much that we don't know about what women thought about in puritan societies.
Will W. period 3
A comments that grabbed my attention was the role of economics pointed out to us. Not so much as money-making within the society, but the economic need for Hester's talent. Although people within the town are appalled by her sin, they still are not past using her talent for sewing and such. The need for that talent, and her presence within the community for all that she does and accomplishes changes their view of her. Well, not so much change their view, but they warp their own view to fit their needs. Instead of the scarlet 'A' standing for adultery, they twist it into standing for 'Able', signifying a strong woman. Although Hester certainly is a strong woman, the townspeople have redefined it to their definition according to their needs and wants.
Blake K. Prd. 3
Hearing what other groups concluded in their mind map presentations broadened my perspective of the Scarlet Letter. With an open mind I was able to understand other’s interpretations and their origin, for example, the political aspect of the Puritan town. Mistress Hibbins is completely excused for her sins of performing witchcraft because her brother, the Governor Bellingham, protects her. However, Hester is shown no mercy for a sin just a bad, or not even as bad. This political idea of hypocrisy is evident in many aspects of Hester’s unfair treatment. The fine line between Hester and Pearl and society is prominent. The two heroines reflect redemption by being true to themselves and accepting consequences for their sins, unlike the town who seem to have a manner of extreme hypocrisy, hidden beneath their “Puritan” ways. For example, the children play cruel games involving witchcraft and throwing stones, which seem, actually, very un-Puritan. But once again, these act of sin are completely disregarded. Hester and Pearl are forced to defend themselves against the stones of gossip and rock. The role of gender played a significant role as well, that I had overlooked. The fact that Hester is a woman who sinned, makes society punish her to a fuller extent than if she were a man. For years she deals with the repercussions of one mistake she has made, even though she can live with her sin just fine. However, Dimmesdale is exalted by society from the beginning of the novel until the end, even when he admits to the same sin at the end. Yet he punishes himself over the never-ending feeling, and his self-deprecation eventually leads to his death. This shows that the male gender was dominant back then, thus adding to the unwavering sense of hypocrisy. The last epiphany I had from the group presentations was the parallel between Pearl and Chillingworth. I was shocked by the realization that both characters inflicted a certain level of pain on Dimmesdale and Hester, but Chillingworth’s torture what out of spite and jealousy, and Pearl’s was out of confusion and frustration. Though different origins, they both account for the upheaval in Hester and Dimmesdale’s journey of guilt.
Analise R.
Period 3
During the presentations, one of the groups touched on the comparison between Dimmesdale and Hester and how they could represent their genders when dealing with the pain of their sin. Hawthorne could be comparing the difference between man and woman and suggesting how they both deal with pain. I would never have made that connection if not for one of the groups that presented on Thursday.
Bradley C. pd. 3
One thing I realized while each group presented their mind maps was how much stronger Hester appears to be than Dimmesdale. Hester walks around with her sin attatched to her clothing while Dimmesdale hides it in shame. She has the strength to hold her head up high and walk around ignoring the comments people make about her as she walks down the street. In my opinion, the scarlet "A" almost gives Hester an advantage because she has no guilt to hide. Nicole J, Period 3.
One group analyzed the role of gender in the Scarlet Letter in a way in which I had never pondered. They suggested that Hester and Dimmesdale had a sort of role reversal, so to speak, where a man should be honorable, courageous and willing to take the blame while a woman should be quiet and perhaps more weak or afraid. This, however, is not at all what occurs in the Scarlet Letter. I began to think that Hester, who had previously sinned, carried her afflicion with such eloquence and determination that she ended up being admired for her strength. This is one of the reasons that the society's view of Hester improved over time. The villagers even eventually think of her as "our Hester—the town’s own Hester—who is
so kind to the poor, so helpful to the sick, so comfortable to the afflicted," (134) illustrating that her strength empowered her to rise above her punishment and sin. While a man ought to be a gentleman, Dimmesdale does nothing of the sort--unless his punishment to himself is considered to be just. This punishment, in my opinion, does not necessarily compare to Hester's humiliation, which was a very cruel and personal form of punishment. In a time where honor is the greatest value, Dimmesdale proves himself to be a coward--perhaps, this is Hawthorne's own satire or sarcastic opinion of this particular time period. In the end, while Dimmesdale and Hester both accepted their own form of punishment, the ways in which they did so suggests that Hester played the role more associated with a "gentleman" while Dimmesdale seemed to act more fragile and "ladylike."
Annie H. Period 3
An epiphany I had when I listened to one of the groups on Friday was that they said Chillingsworth and Pearl have a parallel with each other. Both of the characters bring pain, sorrow, and hard times to Hester and Dimmesdale. Chillingsworth imposes psychological and physical powers over Dimmesdale causing him to have dreary daydreams and thoughts about his unforgivable sin. On the other hand, Pearl is a mischievous child that makes Hester feel guilt by drawing attention to Hester's scarlet letter. She throws objects at her scarlet letter and she also constructs her own, making Hester feel worse about her sin because Pearl doesn't understand the reason for it. Pearl makes Hester feel bad because Hester doesnt want Pearl knowing of the affair that created her and doesn't want Pearl to see herself in a bad life.
Jason Heckler Period 3
One of the groups talked about how Dimmesdale and Hester are star crossed lovers. I had not really put their relationship into these terms until this group explained how they clearly have a connection but they cannot show it. Because they share a daughter together, they already share a rare bond, but since they are not "allowed" to be together it makes the desire more intense. When they do get together, they are happy and want to be with each other. For example, when they are in the woods, they act like they are a couple and they plan their dream getaway. It is very clear that Hester and Dimmesdale share a connection but it wasn't until the mind map presentation that i called their relationship "star crossed lovers"
Jacy L. p. 3
One epiphany I had was when the last group talked about the morality of the Puritans. I thought the Puritans were suppose to be educational and productive, but when Hester and Pearl are pointed at and mocked by Puritan kids, I just thought that was very ironic. Because the Puritans were focusing only in the Bible, they do not even bother to teach their children what is humane and not. Therefore the children, who do the exact thing learned from their parents, inhumanly riducle and try to throw mud at Hester and her daughter. It might be right for Puritans when they look at it from their view according to the Bible, but I do not think the children's act was educational and acceptable. Danny C. pd. 3
I didn't have a chance to hear all the group's presentations but I do have an epiphany to share, I think we are looking at this from a prespective that was told to be right, but I believe if we would just take a step back and look at the story from a very basic way, which is that Hester has sinned and right now we look at the story and we think that the punishment of Hester is cruel and all, but the fact is she has sinned, and she is to atone for the sin she has done. People have to be responsible and I truly believe that even at our society not all the laws are reasonable and we will look back at today thinking how inhumane we are at this moment but this is the best we can do so I dont think Hester deserves as much sympathy as she have received(dont get me wrong, i still think the punishment is a little too cruel but not as much as before) Tim X.
Tim X. Period 3 dang it I keep on messing up!!!
The second epiphany i had came to me when a group was talking about archetypes. i never saw Dimsdale and Hester as star crossed lovers, but once the group brought it up i couldnt stop thinking about it. They love each other, but can't be together because society won't allow them to be. They keep there love and passion secret untill it manifests itself in the most obvious way (pearl). Once that happens society tears them apart by punishing Hester publicly and forcing Dimsdale to punish himself secretly. and it is Dimsdale pusishment of himself that ultimetly tears them apart.
Katie B. pd. 3
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