Maxim Zaslavsky 02/26/12, Period 2 English II, Mrs.

Kelly

Assignment on The Scarlet Letter

The character of Arthur Dimmesdale undergoes a distinct evolution during the forest meeting in Nathaniel Hawthornes The Scarlet Letter his hope is rekindled. Initially, he is described negatively: he looked haggard and feeble . . . as if he saw no reason for taking one step further (161). He himself acknowledges that this is an abnormal and depressing mood by gathering himself quickly up when he hears a voice (162). Thus, we see a definite and conscious lack of spirit exhibited by Dimmesdale. Once the forest meeting begins, however, his behavior changes. First, by means of a simple handshake, Dimmesdale and Hester took away what was dreariest in the interview (163): thus, they quickly rise beyond their initial negative feelings. When this new openness prompt Hester to reveal her secret, Dimmesdales behavior changes further: his misery, which he explains by saying, There is no substance in *me+ . . . I should have long ago thrown off . . . mock holiness and shown myself to mankind (164), transforms into improved feelings about his sin, as he realizes that *they+ are not . . . the worst sinners in the world (167). This demonstrates how his self-questioning conduct is changed via the forest encounter into higher spirits. Finally, with Dimmesdale and Hesters new plans discussed, he departs and acts in a way contrary to his past self. For example, when he passes townspeople, he prepares to say things such as, an unanswerable argument against the immortality of the human soul (188). This new blasphemy suggests that he is drifting away from his previous identity of being a highly religious figure in society. But he resists saying such things, illuminating his self-control. Hence, by means of the forest encounter, Dimmesdale evolves by gaining control over his situation and his emotions, in order to convert them from feelings of helplessness to excitement, hope, and defiance to his past.