#50
Hester and the Physician
This chapter title is a comparison to Hester and Roger's progress over the course of seven years. Hester started off as a force of evil at the beginning of the book while Roger was upheld because he's a medicine man. The two have swapped positions. Hester has now become a major help to society to such an extent that they would gladly allow her to remove her patch. I'm not saying they'd completely forget what she did but she has definitely proven herself a good Samaritan to the Puritans. Roger has sunk low. A doctor is supposed to cure not kill yet Roger has developed this mentality through the idea of revenge. Revenge has altered and named him the new force of evil.
Perhaps Roger is still curing the situation. Dimmesdale is adamant about keeping his secret to the point of death. So maybe the only way that they could get it out of him was by putting him through immense guilt, forcing Roger to take matters into his own hands and retrieve the truth from the depths of hell.
Monday, November 25, 2013
S.L. chp. 14
#49
This unhappy person had effected such a transformation by devoting himself, for seven years, to a constant analysis of a heart full of torture, and deriving his enjoyment thence, and adding fuel to those fiery tortures which he analyzed and gloated over.
Instead of devoting himself to medicine he has taken up a new practice. Hawthorn writes this section as if he were a doctor. The language analysis and analyzed just scream that to me and makes me wonder whether or not Hawthorn was the creator of the first mad scientist/doctor.
This unhappy person had effected such a transformation by devoting himself, for seven years, to a constant analysis of a heart full of torture, and deriving his enjoyment thence, and adding fuel to those fiery tortures which he analyzed and gloated over.
Instead of devoting himself to medicine he has taken up a new practice. Hawthorn writes this section as if he were a doctor. The language analysis and analyzed just scream that to me and makes me wonder whether or not Hawthorn was the creator of the first mad scientist/doctor.
S.L. chp. 14
#48
It seemed to be his wish and purpose to mask this expression with a smile; but the latter played him false, and flickered over his visage so derisively, that the spectator could see his blackness all the better for it. Ever and anon, too, there came a glare of red light out of his eyes; as if the old man's soul were on fire, and kept on smouldering duskily within his breast, until, by some casual puff of passion, it was blown into a momentary flame.
Chilingsworth is on his way out. He can hardly hide his satanic influences and this goes to show that too much of a "good" thing can be bad. He forces himself to be fake to hide from society since he'd pretty much be burned at the stake if they knew what he was really experiencing.
The use of two colors, black and red, give I guess an opening view of the spectrum of this society. White is pure, red is considered touched by Satan, and black means you have no hope of escaping his wrath. The glare of red light shines through Roger's eyes because the eyes are the window to the soul. Since he the man's soul is compared to a fire, his blackness could be similar to that of ashes.
A casual puff of passion is referring to his new found passion of destroying his enemies with small discrete strokes.
It seemed to be his wish and purpose to mask this expression with a smile; but the latter played him false, and flickered over his visage so derisively, that the spectator could see his blackness all the better for it. Ever and anon, too, there came a glare of red light out of his eyes; as if the old man's soul were on fire, and kept on smouldering duskily within his breast, until, by some casual puff of passion, it was blown into a momentary flame.
Chilingsworth is on his way out. He can hardly hide his satanic influences and this goes to show that too much of a "good" thing can be bad. He forces himself to be fake to hide from society since he'd pretty much be burned at the stake if they knew what he was really experiencing.
The use of two colors, black and red, give I guess an opening view of the spectrum of this society. White is pure, red is considered touched by Satan, and black means you have no hope of escaping his wrath. The glare of red light shines through Roger's eyes because the eyes are the window to the soul. Since he the man's soul is compared to a fire, his blackness could be similar to that of ashes.
A casual puff of passion is referring to his new found passion of destroying his enemies with small discrete strokes.
Saturday, November 23, 2013
S.L. chp. 14
#47
"A woman must needs follow her own fancy, touching the adornment of her person. The letter is gayly embroidered, and shows right bravely on your bosom!"
Roger is making a friendly comment about Hester's letter. He says that she has not become the letter she wears but instead the letter has become a symbol of her. Her fancy is of course sewing/embroidering and she has shown that through the needle work upon her scarlet letter. Chillingsworth states that the letter was gayly(happily) embroidered which is what Hester feels when she does what she likes. The word bravely makes me think back to the beginning of the book when she was on the scaffold and brave she had to be. The bright letter could've been taken by the civilians as a sort of taunt but instead took envy in her needle work. The moral is, believe in yourself and follow your heart.
"A woman must needs follow her own fancy, touching the adornment of her person. The letter is gayly embroidered, and shows right bravely on your bosom!"
Roger is making a friendly comment about Hester's letter. He says that she has not become the letter she wears but instead the letter has become a symbol of her. Her fancy is of course sewing/embroidering and she has shown that through the needle work upon her scarlet letter. Chillingsworth states that the letter was gayly(happily) embroidered which is what Hester feels when she does what she likes. The word bravely makes me think back to the beginning of the book when she was on the scaffold and brave she had to be. The bright letter could've been taken by the civilians as a sort of taunt but instead took envy in her needle work. The moral is, believe in yourself and follow your heart.
S.L. chp. 14
#46
"Were I worthy to be quit of it, it would fall away of its own nature, or be transformed into something that should speak a different purport."
Hester says that if she were worthy to be quit of it which means that she doesn't believe to she's ready. This could be because she enjoys bearing her letter or because she feels that people will treat her differently with out it. She could also just be trying to disagree with Chillingsworth since she knows that he is the one destroying Dimmesdale.
"Were I worthy to be quit of it, it would fall away of its own nature, or be transformed into something that should speak a different purport."
Hester says that if she were worthy to be quit of it which means that she doesn't believe to she's ready. This could be because she enjoys bearing her letter or because she feels that people will treat her differently with out it. She could also just be trying to disagree with Chillingsworth since she knows that he is the one destroying Dimmesdale.
Friday, November 22, 2013
S.L. chp. 13
#45
The old man, on the other hand, had brought himself nearer to her level, or perhaps below it, by the revenge which he had stooped for.
All of the characters have been altered. Pearl is now older and more mature in ways while Hester is like the town nurse instead of the village witch. Dimmesdale has been reduced to struggling for his life from the guilt he's been bearing and Chillingsworth has been deformed due to his evil ways. The two couples contrast each other with the results of their interactions.
Chillingsworth has literally begun to stoop to Hester's apparent level. Hawthorn says Roger has to stoop for revenge which would mean he would have to reach into the pits of hell to do such a thing.
The last sentence of chapter 13 says that is looking for roots and herbs to concoct his medicine withal. The word concoct is a parallel to chapter six as to when Hester and Pearl are still considered witches.
The old man, on the other hand, had brought himself nearer to her level, or perhaps below it, by the revenge which he had stooped for.
All of the characters have been altered. Pearl is now older and more mature in ways while Hester is like the town nurse instead of the village witch. Dimmesdale has been reduced to struggling for his life from the guilt he's been bearing and Chillingsworth has been deformed due to his evil ways. The two couples contrast each other with the results of their interactions.
Chillingsworth has literally begun to stoop to Hester's apparent level. Hawthorn says Roger has to stoop for revenge which would mean he would have to reach into the pits of hell to do such a thing.
The last sentence of chapter 13 says that is looking for roots and herbs to concoct his medicine withal. The word concoct is a parallel to chapter six as to when Hester and Pearl are still considered witches.
S.L. chp. 13
#44
At times, a fearful doubt strove to possess her soul, whether it were not better to send Pearl at once to heaven, and go herself to such futurity as Eternal Justice should provide.
Hester is doubtful, as most parents are, as to if her child will turn out successful. Hester worries that Pearl will become her and in turn fail. This section is bringing that idea back to the table. When Hester states that it may be better to send Pearl to heaven she is saying it might be better to give to another family. Not kill her. Hester would then continue on helping when and where she could.
At times, a fearful doubt strove to possess her soul, whether it were not better to send Pearl at once to heaven, and go herself to such futurity as Eternal Justice should provide.
Hester is doubtful, as most parents are, as to if her child will turn out successful. Hester worries that Pearl will become her and in turn fail. This section is bringing that idea back to the table. When Hester states that it may be better to send Pearl to heaven she is saying it might be better to give to another family. Not kill her. Hester would then continue on helping when and where she could.
Thursday, November 21, 2013
S.L. chp. 13
#43
So much power to do, and power to sympathize,-- that many people refused to interpret the scarlet A by it original signification. They said that it meant Able; So strong was Hester Prynne, with a woman's strength.
Hester has this amazing ability to help everyone. They say where there is darkness she goes to it and calls minions up from the dark to help. A great twist since minions are vague as to what they do for a master. The fact that society is in a way rebelling by not calling her scarlet letter a burden anymore supports my idea that society is changing and rebelling. Able, the brother of cane is described as a shepherd which relates to the idea that Hester is a care giver and nurturer. Hawthorn states that Hester has a women's strength. I know it may seem sexist but I believe he is referring to mental strength more than anything.
So much power to do, and power to sympathize,-- that many people refused to interpret the scarlet A by it original signification. They said that it meant Able; So strong was Hester Prynne, with a woman's strength.
Hester has this amazing ability to help everyone. They say where there is darkness she goes to it and calls minions up from the dark to help. A great twist since minions are vague as to what they do for a master. The fact that society is in a way rebelling by not calling her scarlet letter a burden anymore supports my idea that society is changing and rebelling. Able, the brother of cane is described as a shepherd which relates to the idea that Hester is a care giver and nurturer. Hawthorn states that Hester has a women's strength. I know it may seem sexist but I believe he is referring to mental strength more than anything.
S.L. chp. 13
#42
Little accumstomed, in her long seclusion from society, to measure her ideas of right and wrong by any standard external to herself, Hester saw-- or seemed to see-- that there lay a responsibility upon her, in reference to the clergyman, which she owed to no other, nor to the whole world besides.
Hester's long seclusion from society is very similar to Thoreau's except he didn't have a child with him in a small semi-rural cottage. She is also following her own beliefs by taking time to measure right and wrong which is frowned upon by her previous religion. Hester feels the need to take care of Dimmesdale which is a little strange since he is the father that walked out on them. Perhaps she feels that pity, mercy more like it, should be taken on Dimmesdale and gives him the comfort that he is in much need of.
Little accumstomed, in her long seclusion from society, to measure her ideas of right and wrong by any standard external to herself, Hester saw-- or seemed to see-- that there lay a responsibility upon her, in reference to the clergyman, which she owed to no other, nor to the whole world besides.
Hester's long seclusion from society is very similar to Thoreau's except he didn't have a child with him in a small semi-rural cottage. She is also following her own beliefs by taking time to measure right and wrong which is frowned upon by her previous religion. Hester feels the need to take care of Dimmesdale which is a little strange since he is the father that walked out on them. Perhaps she feels that pity, mercy more like it, should be taken on Dimmesdale and gives him the comfort that he is in much need of.
S.L. chp. 12
#41
The next day, however, being the Sabbath, he preached a discourse which was held to be the richest and most powerful, and the most replete with heavenly influence, that had ever preceded from his lips.
I believe Dimmesdale was given a small gift by god. The gift itself was his great sermon and I believe God reassured him with the heavenly meteor. The heavenly influence could also be from relieving some of his stress from holding his secret. Just being with his previous lover and child may be all he needs to do. I mean this was the greatest service that they had ever heard pass from his lips.
The next day, however, being the Sabbath, he preached a discourse which was held to be the richest and most powerful, and the most replete with heavenly influence, that had ever preceded from his lips.
I believe Dimmesdale was given a small gift by god. The gift itself was his great sermon and I believe God reassured him with the heavenly meteor. The heavenly influence could also be from relieving some of his stress from holding his secret. Just being with his previous lover and child may be all he needs to do. I mean this was the greatest service that they had ever heard pass from his lips.
S.L. Chp. 12
#40
"We dream in our waking moments, and walk in our sleep. Come, good Sir, and my friend, I pray you, let me lead you home!"
"How knewest I was here?" asked the minister, feafully.
"Verily and in good faith," answered Roger.
Dimmesdale has just been given an excuse by Roger for why he is out and about this late at night. Roger has been caught by Arthur since he has seen his malevolent smile from the scaffold. When Arthur speaks again he fearfully asks Roger how he knew he was on the scaffold. He follows up by claiming to be in good faith, but of course his view of good faith is ungodly.
I think when Roger calls Dimmesdale sir he is calling him the authority figure of Hester and Pearl.
"We dream in our waking moments, and walk in our sleep. Come, good Sir, and my friend, I pray you, let me lead you home!"
"How knewest I was here?" asked the minister, feafully.
"Verily and in good faith," answered Roger.
Dimmesdale has just been given an excuse by Roger for why he is out and about this late at night. Roger has been caught by Arthur since he has seen his malevolent smile from the scaffold. When Arthur speaks again he fearfully asks Roger how he knew he was on the scaffold. He follows up by claiming to be in good faith, but of course his view of good faith is ungodly.
I think when Roger calls Dimmesdale sir he is calling him the authority figure of Hester and Pearl.
S.L. chp. 12
#39
"Pious Master Dimmesdale!"
Chillingsworth knows that Dimmesdale is not what he appears to be. His secret sins have been hidden and have flawed his character to the extent that he is practically killing himself. Chillingsworth knows this and continues to play along pretending to be Dimmesdale's friend and physician. Roger is actually killing him and condemning him to hell by not revealing Arthur's secret for him. Chillingsworth knowingly calls Dimmesdale pious and faithful when he is on the scaffolding because his secret is confirmed to be true and obvious. By calling him pious he is using verbal irony.
"Pious Master Dimmesdale!"
Chillingsworth knows that Dimmesdale is not what he appears to be. His secret sins have been hidden and have flawed his character to the extent that he is practically killing himself. Chillingsworth knows this and continues to play along pretending to be Dimmesdale's friend and physician. Roger is actually killing him and condemning him to hell by not revealing Arthur's secret for him. Chillingsworth knowingly calls Dimmesdale pious and faithful when he is on the scaffolding because his secret is confirmed to be true and obvious. By calling him pious he is using verbal irony.
S.L. chp. 12
#38
The minister appeared to see him, with the same glance that discerned the miraculous letter.
Roger Chillingsworth is a symbol of evil and grants Arthur with the lovely copious amounts of stress. God does the same by giving him religious pressure. Dimmesdale is kind of just being tossed about between Satan and God which as we can see is very stressful. When he see's Chillingsworth he feels equal and similar emotions towards the signs from god and the evil do-ers of Beelzebub.
The minister appeared to see him, with the same glance that discerned the miraculous letter.
Roger Chillingsworth is a symbol of evil and grants Arthur with the lovely copious amounts of stress. God does the same by giving him religious pressure. Dimmesdale is kind of just being tossed about between Satan and God which as we can see is very stressful. When he see's Chillingsworth he feels equal and similar emotions towards the signs from god and the evil do-ers of Beelzebub.
S.L. chp. 12
#37
The letter A, marked out in lines of dull red light. Not but the meteor may have shown itself at that point, burning duskily through a veil of cloud; but with no such shape as his guilty imagination gave it; or, at least, with so little definiteness, that another's guilt might have seen another symbol in it.
The large letter A in the sky is a symbol to Dimmesdale of adultery and to Hester it is an alternate way to interpret her letter. After the letter is seen in the sky Hester's letter now means angel. The next sentence says that Dimmesdale sees the letter A and interprets it with his imagination as an A for adultery. The other persons guilt refers to Hester and how she interprets the letter to her benefit instead of in a negative way.
The letter A, marked out in lines of dull red light. Not but the meteor may have shown itself at that point, burning duskily through a veil of cloud; but with no such shape as his guilty imagination gave it; or, at least, with so little definiteness, that another's guilt might have seen another symbol in it.
The large letter A in the sky is a symbol to Dimmesdale of adultery and to Hester it is an alternate way to interpret her letter. After the letter is seen in the sky Hester's letter now means angel. The next sentence says that Dimmesdale sees the letter A and interprets it with his imagination as an A for adultery. The other persons guilt refers to Hester and how she interprets the letter to her benefit instead of in a negative way.
S.L. chp. 12
#36
IN such a case, it could only be the symptom of a highly disordered mental state, when a man, rendered morbidly self-contemplative by long, intense, and secret pain, had extended his egotism over the whole expanse of nature, until the firmament itself should appear no more than a fitting page for his soul's history and fate.
This section is referring directly to Dimmesdale and the mental torture he is enduring. Chillingsworth may play a huge part in destroying Dimmesdale but Arthur is the one that can release himself. He can release himself from this guilt and eventually overcome the shame by just telling the truth! When it says he extends his egotism over the expanse of nature this is can be related to the theme of nature. Dimmedale is so out of it and guilty that he believes he is receiving signs through nature. Nature of course being god and god being Nathaniel Hawthorn. The last bit speaks of firmament as his destination, but wouldn't his sins send him down to hell instead of heaven? Dimmesdale believes he still has God's friendship but I believe he is destined for a much harsher after life.
IN such a case, it could only be the symptom of a highly disordered mental state, when a man, rendered morbidly self-contemplative by long, intense, and secret pain, had extended his egotism over the whole expanse of nature, until the firmament itself should appear no more than a fitting page for his soul's history and fate.
This section is referring directly to Dimmesdale and the mental torture he is enduring. Chillingsworth may play a huge part in destroying Dimmesdale but Arthur is the one that can release himself. He can release himself from this guilt and eventually overcome the shame by just telling the truth! When it says he extends his egotism over the expanse of nature this is can be related to the theme of nature. Dimmedale is so out of it and guilty that he believes he is receiving signs through nature. Nature of course being god and god being Nathaniel Hawthorn. The last bit speaks of firmament as his destination, but wouldn't his sins send him down to hell instead of heaven? Dimmesdale believes he still has God's friendship but I believe he is destined for a much harsher after life.
Wednesday, November 20, 2013
S.L. chp. 12
#35
Thus, a blazing spear, a sword of flame, a bow, or a sheaf for arrows, seen in the midnight sky, prefigured Indian warfare. Pestillence was known to have been foreboded by a shower of crimson light.
What really caught my eye was the sword of flame. This symbol, to me, referred to the flaming sword wielded by the Cherub Jophiel who banishes Adam and Eve from paradise for picking and eating the forbidden fruit from Genesis 3:24. The banishment of Adam and Eve can also be related to Arthur and Hester since they to indulged in a forbidden fruit of sorts. Pearl could very well be the Cherub that is guarding them from entering back into paradise which can be related to being accepted back into society and relieving the stress of carrying a secret.
The last sentence is a foreshadow foretelling that bad things are to come after a meteor with an emanating red light about it. The crimson coloring of the meteor is interpreted by society as bad and the same thoughts are applied to Hester with her scarlet letter.
Thus, a blazing spear, a sword of flame, a bow, or a sheaf for arrows, seen in the midnight sky, prefigured Indian warfare. Pestillence was known to have been foreboded by a shower of crimson light.
What really caught my eye was the sword of flame. This symbol, to me, referred to the flaming sword wielded by the Cherub Jophiel who banishes Adam and Eve from paradise for picking and eating the forbidden fruit from Genesis 3:24. The banishment of Adam and Eve can also be related to Arthur and Hester since they to indulged in a forbidden fruit of sorts. Pearl could very well be the Cherub that is guarding them from entering back into paradise which can be related to being accepted back into society and relieving the stress of carrying a secret.
The last sentence is a foreshadow foretelling that bad things are to come after a meteor with an emanating red light about it. The crimson coloring of the meteor is interpreted by society as bad and the same thoughts are applied to Hester with her scarlet letter.
S.L. chp. 12
#34
And there stood the minister, with his hand over his heart; and Hester Prynne, with the embroidered letter glimmering on her bosom; and little Pearl, herself a symbol, and the connecting link between those two. They stood in the noon of that solemn splendor, as if it were the light that is to reveal all secrets, and the daybreak that shall unit all who belong to one another.
Arthur is yet again grabbing his chest but this time and think he can feel the letter A for adultery over his own heart. This is probably brought on by guilt, if he was not feeling guilt then he was feeling a message from god above. Hester scarlet letter is described as glimmering. Hawthorn probably put her letter into a positive light in order to show how Hester is the good parent. Pearl is a physical link to Hester and Dimmesdale in two ways. One she's holding both their hands and two she is a creation of both characters.
The solemn splendor of the comet is relate able to church since this mood is similarly seen in church services. Hawthorn next speaks about the light revealing all secrets. He is clearly speaking about Dimmesdales sin and any witnesses that were present during the meteor. The use of the word daybreak is odd since it comparing the comet to daylight. Clearly Hawthorn, in the form of god, is just to tell Dimmesdale he's wrong and show him the correct path. Which is telling the truth.
And there stood the minister, with his hand over his heart; and Hester Prynne, with the embroidered letter glimmering on her bosom; and little Pearl, herself a symbol, and the connecting link between those two. They stood in the noon of that solemn splendor, as if it were the light that is to reveal all secrets, and the daybreak that shall unit all who belong to one another.
Arthur is yet again grabbing his chest but this time and think he can feel the letter A for adultery over his own heart. This is probably brought on by guilt, if he was not feeling guilt then he was feeling a message from god above. Hester scarlet letter is described as glimmering. Hawthorn probably put her letter into a positive light in order to show how Hester is the good parent. Pearl is a physical link to Hester and Dimmesdale in two ways. One she's holding both their hands and two she is a creation of both characters.
The solemn splendor of the comet is relate able to church since this mood is similarly seen in church services. Hawthorn next speaks about the light revealing all secrets. He is clearly speaking about Dimmesdales sin and any witnesses that were present during the meteor. The use of the word daybreak is odd since it comparing the comet to daylight. Clearly Hawthorn, in the form of god, is just to tell Dimmesdale he's wrong and show him the correct path. Which is telling the truth.
S.L. chp. 12
#33
A light gleamed far and wide over all the muffled sky. It was doubtless caused by one of those meteors, which the night-watcher may so often observe burning out to waste, in the vacant regions of the atmosphere.
The meteor provides a false daylight so that Roger Chillingsworth can witness the reunion of the broken family and also spur on his revenge to another level. Dimmesdale has clearly just been spoken to by god since the loving trio has been seen by another person. It may not of been daylight but it was surely bright enough for an old man to witness the scene from a distance.
Dimmesdale in a way feels betrayed by god since his greatest secret was just flaunted about in front of Chillingsworth. His single interpretation of the meteor is selfish and narrow minded but it shows what a large amount of guilt can do to ones thoughts.
A light gleamed far and wide over all the muffled sky. It was doubtless caused by one of those meteors, which the night-watcher may so often observe burning out to waste, in the vacant regions of the atmosphere.
The meteor provides a false daylight so that Roger Chillingsworth can witness the reunion of the broken family and also spur on his revenge to another level. Dimmesdale has clearly just been spoken to by god since the loving trio has been seen by another person. It may not of been daylight but it was surely bright enough for an old man to witness the scene from a distance.
Dimmesdale in a way feels betrayed by god since his greatest secret was just flaunted about in front of Chillingsworth. His single interpretation of the meteor is selfish and narrow minded but it shows what a large amount of guilt can do to ones thoughts.
S.L. chp. 12
#32
"Then, and there, before the judgement-seat, thy mother, and thou, and I, must stand together! But the daylight of this world shall not see our meeting!"
Dimmesdale has told Pearl that he will not be seen with them in public until the world ends. He practically says that he would never reveal his secret even if it does mean that he's breaking the "electric chain". This is an example of just how much shame Dimmesdale believes he is harboring. Little does he know that his shame is actually turning into stress that will eventually kill him.
"Then, and there, before the judgement-seat, thy mother, and thou, and I, must stand together! But the daylight of this world shall not see our meeting!"
Dimmesdale has told Pearl that he will not be seen with them in public until the world ends. He practically says that he would never reveal his secret even if it does mean that he's breaking the "electric chain". This is an example of just how much shame Dimmesdale believes he is harboring. Little does he know that his shame is actually turning into stress that will eventually kill him.
S.L. chp. 12
#31
"At the great judgement day!"
Dimmesdale is obviously not ready to show himself to the public as Pearl's father and Hester's husband. He has this strange fear of being found out by the public which is odd because usually the first thing that you'd want to do if held to a religion is confess your sin but he does just the opposite. Could it be that he's not only trying to hide his sin from society but also god?
While Dimmesdale does give Pearl an exact date as to when they can announce their family, it's a little vague and harsh. I say harsh because it would be god announcing their sins and sending them down to Beelzebub as one big happy family. Pearl may be spared.
"At the great judgement day!"
Dimmesdale is obviously not ready to show himself to the public as Pearl's father and Hester's husband. He has this strange fear of being found out by the public which is odd because usually the first thing that you'd want to do if held to a religion is confess your sin but he does just the opposite. Could it be that he's not only trying to hide his sin from society but also god?
While Dimmesdale does give Pearl an exact date as to when they can announce their family, it's a little vague and harsh. I say harsh because it would be god announcing their sins and sending them down to Beelzebub as one big happy family. Pearl may be spared.
S.L. chp. 12
#30
The minister felt for the childs other hand, and took it. The moment that he did so, there what seemed a tumultuous rush of new life, other life than his own, pouring like a torrent into his heart, and hurrying through all his veins, as if the mother and the child were communicating their vital warmth to his half torpid system. The three formed an electric chain.
Dimmesdale is feeling something that is foreign to him, but we can tell that he is alarmed by it because of how startled he is. This rush of new life flows into his heart which is what he clutches from guilt. This connection could have healed him in a way since he has never really been with his new family. He is so affected by this that he claims they are like an electric chain. I think he has found love, but only a family's love.
The minister felt for the childs other hand, and took it. The moment that he did so, there what seemed a tumultuous rush of new life, other life than his own, pouring like a torrent into his heart, and hurrying through all his veins, as if the mother and the child were communicating their vital warmth to his half torpid system. The three formed an electric chain.
Dimmesdale is feeling something that is foreign to him, but we can tell that he is alarmed by it because of how startled he is. This rush of new life flows into his heart which is what he clutches from guilt. This connection could have healed him in a way since he has never really been with his new family. He is so affected by this that he claims they are like an electric chain. I think he has found love, but only a family's love.
S.L. chp. 12
#29
Whom would they discern there, with the red eastern light upon his brow? Whom, but the Reverend Arthur Dimmesdale, half frozen to death, overwhelmed with shame, and standing where Hester Pryne stood!
The red eastern light is another way of saying that the sun is rising. The use of red in this situation and the fact that he is standing on the scaffold implies that he is now in the place of Hester with an equivalent amount of guilt. When Hawthorn writes half frozen to death I believe he is relating this to Chillingsworth. Chillingsworth= Chilling= frozen/cold. The idea that Chillingsworth is only half frozen implies that he is still alive and being tortured by Roger. This is a low point for Dimmesdale, but I believe that as a whole his connection with Pearl and Hester is for the better. Chillingsworth has accomplished one of the two things he seeked to wreak upon Arthur. The first being death and the second being shame.
Whom would they discern there, with the red eastern light upon his brow? Whom, but the Reverend Arthur Dimmesdale, half frozen to death, overwhelmed with shame, and standing where Hester Pryne stood!
The red eastern light is another way of saying that the sun is rising. The use of red in this situation and the fact that he is standing on the scaffold implies that he is now in the place of Hester with an equivalent amount of guilt. When Hawthorn writes half frozen to death I believe he is relating this to Chillingsworth. Chillingsworth= Chilling= frozen/cold. The idea that Chillingsworth is only half frozen implies that he is still alive and being tortured by Roger. This is a low point for Dimmesdale, but I believe that as a whole his connection with Pearl and Hester is for the better. Chillingsworth has accomplished one of the two things he seeked to wreak upon Arthur. The first being death and the second being shame.
S.L. chp. 12
#28
Or, if it did, the drowsy slumberers mistook the cry either for something frightful in a dream, or for the noises of witches; whose voices, at that period, were often heard to pass over the settlements or lonely cottages, as they rode with Satan through the air.
When he speaks of the witches he could very well mean his flaws, which are Hester and Pearl. I call them his flaws because Hester is his abandoned wife and Pearl is the evidence. Hawthorn writes that the witches pass over not only settlements but lonely cottages. I believe that this is a reference to Hester's cottage which also implies witch like activity.
Saying the townspeople are awoken by the noise of witches voices immediately makes me think of Pearl and her obnoxious voice. The last part of the sentence I think is definitely referring to Chillingsworth since he is is also with Hester and Pearl at the death of Governor Winthrop.
Or, if it did, the drowsy slumberers mistook the cry either for something frightful in a dream, or for the noises of witches; whose voices, at that period, were often heard to pass over the settlements or lonely cottages, as they rode with Satan through the air.
When he speaks of the witches he could very well mean his flaws, which are Hester and Pearl. I call them his flaws because Hester is his abandoned wife and Pearl is the evidence. Hawthorn writes that the witches pass over not only settlements but lonely cottages. I believe that this is a reference to Hester's cottage which also implies witch like activity.
Saying the townspeople are awoken by the noise of witches voices immediately makes me think of Pearl and her obnoxious voice. The last part of the sentence I think is definitely referring to Chillingsworth since he is is also with Hester and Pearl at the death of Governor Winthrop.
Tuesday, November 19, 2013
S.L. chp. 11
#27
In Mr. Dimmesdale's secret closet, under lock and key, there was a bloody scourge.
In this sentence scourge means a person or thing that causes great trouble or suffering. The scourge is also describe as bloody which could be related to the color red. This puts a partial ownership on Hester and Pearl since they are directly related to the color red.
Arthur's secret closet is a metaphor for his breast since that is where he holds his secret. Lastly, under lock and key can be interpreted as his religion and profession since that is what's holding him hostage.
In Mr. Dimmesdale's secret closet, under lock and key, there was a bloody scourge.
In this sentence scourge means a person or thing that causes great trouble or suffering. The scourge is also describe as bloody which could be related to the color red. This puts a partial ownership on Hester and Pearl since they are directly related to the color red.
Arthur's secret closet is a metaphor for his breast since that is where he holds his secret. Lastly, under lock and key can be interpreted as his religion and profession since that is what's holding him hostage.
S.L. chp. 11
#26
Pointing her forefinger, first at the scarlet letter on her bosom, and then at the clergyman's own breast.
This relates to the thoughts of Roger Chillingsworth earlier on in this chapter. He holds this fantasy of Dimmesdale being haunted by a thousand Phantoms who had came upward from hell to retrieve him. This time the ghosts are more intimate and resemble his father, mother, dead friends, and lastly Hester and Pearl. Hester points first at her scarlet letter which tells Dimmesdale about what is to come or what he deserves. She then points at Dimmesdale's chest which he has issues with first of all and secondly this is where Chillingsworth knows his scarlet letter is. In a way, Dimmesdale's Achilles heal is his breast/letter.
Pointing her forefinger, first at the scarlet letter on her bosom, and then at the clergyman's own breast.
This relates to the thoughts of Roger Chillingsworth earlier on in this chapter. He holds this fantasy of Dimmesdale being haunted by a thousand Phantoms who had came upward from hell to retrieve him. This time the ghosts are more intimate and resemble his father, mother, dead friends, and lastly Hester and Pearl. Hester points first at her scarlet letter which tells Dimmesdale about what is to come or what he deserves. She then points at Dimmesdale's chest which he has issues with first of all and secondly this is where Chillingsworth knows his scarlet letter is. In a way, Dimmesdale's Achilles heal is his breast/letter.
Monday, November 18, 2013
S.L. chp. 11
#25
As at the waving of a magician's wand, uprose a grisly phantom,-- uprose a thousand phantoms,--in many shapes, of death, or more awful shame, all flocking roundabout the clergyman, and pointing with their fingers at his breast!
Roger is obviously going insane and I make this statement because Hawthorn takes the time to lay out his mind in this section. When Chillingsworth restates his answer he increases the number of phantoms in order to ensure that his victim is dead. The thing is that he's only daydreaming about the phantoms. He next says that they will appear in many shapes. of death, or more awful shame. Being a minister one of the worst things he can do is perform a major sin that gets him killed and what follows that of course is front page in the daily paper. The remembrance of Arthur would last much longer than his immediate death. Lastly the phantoms are coincidentally pointing at his guilty heart which he clutches constantly. He does so because he feels the guilt of adultry, abandonment of his child, and for lying to god.
As at the waving of a magician's wand, uprose a grisly phantom,-- uprose a thousand phantoms,--in many shapes, of death, or more awful shame, all flocking roundabout the clergyman, and pointing with their fingers at his breast!
Roger is obviously going insane and I make this statement because Hawthorn takes the time to lay out his mind in this section. When Chillingsworth restates his answer he increases the number of phantoms in order to ensure that his victim is dead. The thing is that he's only daydreaming about the phantoms. He next says that they will appear in many shapes. of death, or more awful shame. Being a minister one of the worst things he can do is perform a major sin that gets him killed and what follows that of course is front page in the daily paper. The remembrance of Arthur would last much longer than his immediate death. Lastly the phantoms are coincidentally pointing at his guilty heart which he clutches constantly. He does so because he feels the guilt of adultry, abandonment of his child, and for lying to god.
S.L. chp. 11
#24
Not a spectator only, but a chief actor in the poor minister's interior world. He could play upon him as he chose. Would he arouse him with a throb of agony? The victim was for ever on the rack;
A definition for rack as a verb was to cause extreme mental or physical pain. I thought this might be the correct definition for this use of rack since Dimmesdale is in both physical pain from his symptoms of being sick and severe mental pain from Chillingsworth. There is also a weird similarity here between Hamlet and Roger in the sense that both picture themselves as actors. Methinks this is a sign of insanity if you see yourself as an actor.
Chillingsworth also sounds a little like a man with an expertise of torture just about to enter the holding room with his toolbox of prying tools.
Not a spectator only, but a chief actor in the poor minister's interior world. He could play upon him as he chose. Would he arouse him with a throb of agony? The victim was for ever on the rack;
A definition for rack as a verb was to cause extreme mental or physical pain. I thought this might be the correct definition for this use of rack since Dimmesdale is in both physical pain from his symptoms of being sick and severe mental pain from Chillingsworth. There is also a weird similarity here between Hamlet and Roger in the sense that both picture themselves as actors. Methinks this is a sign of insanity if you see yourself as an actor.
Chillingsworth also sounds a little like a man with an expertise of torture just about to enter the holding room with his toolbox of prying tools.
S.L. chp. 11
#23
Calm gentle, passionless, as he appeared, there was yet, we fear, a quiet depth of malice, hitherto latent, but active now, in this unfortunate old man, which led him to imagine a more intimate revenge than any mortal had ever wreaked upon an enemy.
Chillingsworth has unsknowingly become evil through an act of silent revenge. What was at first simple suspicion has become a full blown unplanned scheme for the death of a man. A minister no less. The word intimate caught my eye here and I thought it could relate to two ideas. One, by intimate he could mean the private past relationship between Hester and Arthur. I think this because this is the sin that in turn kills Dimmesdale. Another view could be referring to Dimmesdale and Chillingsworth's relationship since they have only recently met.
Calm gentle, passionless, as he appeared, there was yet, we fear, a quiet depth of malice, hitherto latent, but active now, in this unfortunate old man, which led him to imagine a more intimate revenge than any mortal had ever wreaked upon an enemy.
Chillingsworth has unsknowingly become evil through an act of silent revenge. What was at first simple suspicion has become a full blown unplanned scheme for the death of a man. A minister no less. The word intimate caught my eye here and I thought it could relate to two ideas. One, by intimate he could mean the private past relationship between Hester and Arthur. I think this because this is the sin that in turn kills Dimmesdale. Another view could be referring to Dimmesdale and Chillingsworth's relationship since they have only recently met.
S.L. chp. 10
#22
that these black weeds have sprung up out of a buried heart, to make manifest an unspoken crime?
I found that this related to nature because in a way the black weeds have a mind of their own and have sprung out of a heart that was once living. The importance of the black weeds and the heart they have sprung from is that Dimmesdale has abandoned his relationship with Hester and Pearl. The words 'buried heart' in a way could mean that Arthur's affection for his family is just hidden or stowed for a later time. When Chillingsworth says "to make manifest an unspoken crime" he is trying to get Dimmesdale to admit to his act of adultry with Hester or at least attempting to get enough of a reaction.
that these black weeds have sprung up out of a buried heart, to make manifest an unspoken crime?
I found that this related to nature because in a way the black weeds have a mind of their own and have sprung out of a heart that was once living. The importance of the black weeds and the heart they have sprung from is that Dimmesdale has abandoned his relationship with Hester and Pearl. The words 'buried heart' in a way could mean that Arthur's affection for his family is just hidden or stowed for a later time. When Chillingsworth says "to make manifest an unspoken crime" he is trying to get Dimmesdale to admit to his act of adultry with Hester or at least attempting to get enough of a reaction.
S.L. chp. 10
# 21
He now dug into the poor clergyman's heart, like a miner searching for gold; or, rather, like a sexton delving into a grave, possibly in quest of a jewel that had been buried on a the dead man's bosom, but likely to find nothing save mortality and corruption.
Hawthorn is referring to the secret that Dimmesdale is keeping. The idea that Chillingsworth is digging into his grave in search of a "jewel" relates to the acts of Chillingsworth later on in the book. I say this because Chillingsworth, by not sharing information, is digging Dimmesdale's grave for him. The funny thing is that Roger is also digging Dimmesdale's grave up for the truth.
Hawthorn coincidentally says that the jewel Chillingsworth is looking for is upon a dead man's bosom. This is a very truthful statement since Arthur has an A for adultry upon his chest. This entire comparison is to make us understand that the doctor who is supposedly searching for a cure to Dimmesdale's sickness is actually performing sinful deeds in order to find the truth Dimmesdale is hiding.
He now dug into the poor clergyman's heart, like a miner searching for gold; or, rather, like a sexton delving into a grave, possibly in quest of a jewel that had been buried on a the dead man's bosom, but likely to find nothing save mortality and corruption.
Hawthorn is referring to the secret that Dimmesdale is keeping. The idea that Chillingsworth is digging into his grave in search of a "jewel" relates to the acts of Chillingsworth later on in the book. I say this because Chillingsworth, by not sharing information, is digging Dimmesdale's grave for him. The funny thing is that Roger is also digging Dimmesdale's grave up for the truth.
Hawthorn coincidentally says that the jewel Chillingsworth is looking for is upon a dead man's bosom. This is a very truthful statement since Arthur has an A for adultry upon his chest. This entire comparison is to make us understand that the doctor who is supposedly searching for a cure to Dimmesdale's sickness is actually performing sinful deeds in order to find the truth Dimmesdale is hiding.
S.L. chp. 9
#20
In his Indian captivity, moreover, he had gained much knowledge of the properties of the native herbs and roots; nor did he conceal from his patients, that these simple medicines, Nature's boon to the untutored savage, had quite as a large a share of his own confidence as the European pharmacopoeia, which so many learned doctors had spent centuries in elaborating.
Before any set out across the Atlantic sea there were people called Alchemists who were hired by kings to perform an entertaining mixture of science and magic. Chemicals were abstracted from roots and plants of all sorts for experiments and medical purposes. Magic claimed to be used in alchemy is why I bring up Chillingsworth's time spent in Indian captivity. Indians in general are seen as evil demons by the Puritans and I'm sure that a spiritual gathering would look a lot like a call to Satan. Chillingsworth relates his knowledge of plants from Europe to that of the Indians and finds they are similar. What I'm trying to say is that in a way Chillingsworth is influenced by the "Satanic beings" and performs Satan's bidding through the withholding of information from Dimmesdale.
In his Indian captivity, moreover, he had gained much knowledge of the properties of the native herbs and roots; nor did he conceal from his patients, that these simple medicines, Nature's boon to the untutored savage, had quite as a large a share of his own confidence as the European pharmacopoeia, which so many learned doctors had spent centuries in elaborating.
Before any set out across the Atlantic sea there were people called Alchemists who were hired by kings to perform an entertaining mixture of science and magic. Chemicals were abstracted from roots and plants of all sorts for experiments and medical purposes. Magic claimed to be used in alchemy is why I bring up Chillingsworth's time spent in Indian captivity. Indians in general are seen as evil demons by the Puritans and I'm sure that a spiritual gathering would look a lot like a call to Satan. Chillingsworth relates his knowledge of plants from Europe to that of the Indians and finds they are similar. What I'm trying to say is that in a way Chillingsworth is influenced by the "Satanic beings" and performs Satan's bidding through the withholding of information from Dimmesdale.
S.L. chp.8
#19
Mistress Hibbins, Governor Bellingmham's bitter tempered sister, and the same who, a few years later, was executed as a witch.
This got me thinking. Mistress Hibbins and Pearl are both accused of being a witch. Although, I think that since she is the Governor's sister she is shown much more mercy and the same with Governor Bellingham. Could it be that because of Governor Bellingham's power he and his sister are not bothered about witchcraft rumors?
Pearl and Mistress are also almost polar opposites. Mistress Hibbins is a cranky old woman who is from a family with power. Pearl is a young girl from half a family. While Pearl is not heard from after Hester returns, Mistress Hibbins is burned at the stake for being a witch. Could this be Hawthorn trying to say Pearl is following in the footsteps of her mother and not a witch?
Mistress Hibbins, Governor Bellingmham's bitter tempered sister, and the same who, a few years later, was executed as a witch.
This got me thinking. Mistress Hibbins and Pearl are both accused of being a witch. Although, I think that since she is the Governor's sister she is shown much more mercy and the same with Governor Bellingham. Could it be that because of Governor Bellingham's power he and his sister are not bothered about witchcraft rumors?
Pearl and Mistress are also almost polar opposites. Mistress Hibbins is a cranky old woman who is from a family with power. Pearl is a young girl from half a family. While Pearl is not heard from after Hester returns, Mistress Hibbins is burned at the stake for being a witch. Could this be Hawthorn trying to say Pearl is following in the footsteps of her mother and not a witch?
Sunday, November 17, 2013
S.L. chpt. 9
#18
Roger "Leech" Chillingsworth
When Hester sees Chillingsworth for the first time after a long while he has changed much. Apparently his features had become much uglier, duskier, and his body more misshapen. He as a character represents the theme of evil since Puritans are simply following the law. How does he receive this title? He does so by destroying Arthur Dimmesdale in one of the most cruel ways. By doing and saying nothing regarding the affair between his wife and Dimmesdale. So instead of releasing Dimmesdale through the truth he trapped with the guilt of being a father.
Roger "Leech" Chillingsworth
When Hester sees Chillingsworth for the first time after a long while he has changed much. Apparently his features had become much uglier, duskier, and his body more misshapen. He as a character represents the theme of evil since Puritans are simply following the law. How does he receive this title? He does so by destroying Arthur Dimmesdale in one of the most cruel ways. By doing and saying nothing regarding the affair between his wife and Dimmesdale. So instead of releasing Dimmesdale through the truth he trapped with the guilt of being a father.
S.L. chp. 8
#17
See ye not, she is the scarlet letter, only capable of being loved, and so endowed with a million fold the power of retribution for my sin?
Hester says it herself. Pearl is the scarlet letter that Hester wears upon her chest. She is the outcome of her sin and therefore is her sin. In order to maintain her chance to win the governor and Mr. Wilson's opinion on whether or not she can keep Pearl, she says that she is capable of being loved. I interpret this as she is still blooming as a person and just needs time. Hester also claims that Pearl is much more well off than herself since she has a million times the chance for retribution because it was not her personal sin.
See ye not, she is the scarlet letter, only capable of being loved, and so endowed with a million fold the power of retribution for my sin?
Hester says it herself. Pearl is the scarlet letter that Hester wears upon her chest. She is the outcome of her sin and therefore is her sin. In order to maintain her chance to win the governor and Mr. Wilson's opinion on whether or not she can keep Pearl, she says that she is capable of being loved. I interpret this as she is still blooming as a person and just needs time. Hester also claims that Pearl is much more well off than herself since she has a million times the chance for retribution because it was not her personal sin.
S.L. chp 8
#16
The child finally announced that she was not made at all, but had been plucked by her mother off the bush of wild roses, that grew by the prison door.
Pearl is answering Master Wilson with a symbol that greatly represents the family Prynne. She speaks from the heart when she says she was plucked from the rosebush. Pearl directly relates herself to a rose which in turn brings us back to the theme of nature. By saying that she was plucked by her mother might mean to Mr. Wilson and Governor Bellingham that she is currently following in her mothers footsteps.
Since the rosebush is outside the prison door and since Pearl and Hester are practically outcasts from society this could be a parallel to their situation.
The child finally announced that she was not made at all, but had been plucked by her mother off the bush of wild roses, that grew by the prison door.
Pearl is answering Master Wilson with a symbol that greatly represents the family Prynne. She speaks from the heart when she says she was plucked from the rosebush. Pearl directly relates herself to a rose which in turn brings us back to the theme of nature. By saying that she was plucked by her mother might mean to Mr. Wilson and Governor Bellingham that she is currently following in her mothers footsteps.
Since the rosebush is outside the prison door and since Pearl and Hester are practically outcasts from society this could be a parallel to their situation.
S.L. chp 7
#15
There were few rosebushes, however, and a number of apple-trees, probably the descendants of those planted by Reverend Mr. Blackstone, the first settler of peninsula; that half mythological personage who rides through our early annals, seated on the back of a bull.
This is a symbol of the society. What Hawthorn is saying is that the first people there were Puritans therefore there are few people from other religions or even with different mindsets. So that would make Hester and Pearl the few rosebushes and the apple trees the "generic" Puritans that have been there for forever. Although now that I think about it the trees that have been there longer than ever are the trees in the forest. The forest then represents the natives who are also known as the demons/imps/sprites.
There were few rosebushes, however, and a number of apple-trees, probably the descendants of those planted by Reverend Mr. Blackstone, the first settler of peninsula; that half mythological personage who rides through our early annals, seated on the back of a bull.
This is a symbol of the society. What Hawthorn is saying is that the first people there were Puritans therefore there are few people from other religions or even with different mindsets. So that would make Hester and Pearl the few rosebushes and the apple trees the "generic" Puritans that have been there for forever. Although now that I think about it the trees that have been there longer than ever are the trees in the forest. The forest then represents the natives who are also known as the demons/imps/sprites.
Saturday, November 16, 2013
S.L. chp.5
#14
Deep Ruffs, painfully wrought bands, and gorgeously embroidered gloves, were all deemed necessary to the official state of men assuming the reins of power
This is a symbol of vanity which is strange to be heard of when speaking about a Puritan leader. Vanity is a tool used by people who want attention but if you were a Puritan then you prided yourself on your simplistic garb. The governor is the opposite which means he's not completely faithful to his religion. Hester later on in the chapter describes her clothes as coarse and sombre aside from the scarlet letter. This made me think well in this case the scarlet letter is symbolizing the governor because of his fancy clothing and Hester is symbolizing society with her simplistic dress.
Deep Ruffs, painfully wrought bands, and gorgeously embroidered gloves, were all deemed necessary to the official state of men assuming the reins of power
This is a symbol of vanity which is strange to be heard of when speaking about a Puritan leader. Vanity is a tool used by people who want attention but if you were a Puritan then you prided yourself on your simplistic garb. The governor is the opposite which means he's not completely faithful to his religion. Hester later on in the chapter describes her clothes as coarse and sombre aside from the scarlet letter. This made me think well in this case the scarlet letter is symbolizing the governor because of his fancy clothing and Hester is symbolizing society with her simplistic dress.
S.L. Chp. 6
#13
"Child, what art thou?" cried the mother. "Oh, I am your little Pearl!" answered the child. But while she said it, Pearl laughed, and began to dance up and
down with the humoursome gesticulation of a little imp, whose
next freak might be to fly up the chimney. "Art thou my child, in very truth?" asked Hester.
Hester can't believe what Pearl is becoming. She sees Pearl in the way that society wants her to but she still loves the child. This could be setup as Society vs Hester since society has influenced Pearl into becoming a devil child. Pearl is much too young to understand the real meaning of Hester's question which shows her still blooming as a person/character. When Hester questions "Art though my child, in very truth?" she may be saying could this be your father's side? Or she is so shocked by Hester's imp like actions that she starts to think society, the Puritans, may be right about Pearl.
S.L. chpt. 8
#12
"Pearl? ---Ruby, rather!-----or Coral!--- or Red Rose at the very least judging from thy hue!"
Mr. Wilson retorts to Pearls previous outburst with the quote above. He directly relates her to the rose bush from the first chapter which is also a key symbol of the theme nature vs society. In the opinion of Mr. Wilson Red Rose, is a suggested name for Pearl since he feels Pearl is not a suitable name for a demonic child. Pearls are of course small shiny cream/white jewels held beloved by many. They are created by sea creatures called clams. I'm saying this because they are produced by an animal that is practically inanimate. A creature that does nothing and in a way is pure. The rose is a plant that depends on season and weather. Also they can be unpleasant if stuck with one of their thorns.
"Pearl? ---Ruby, rather!-----or Coral!--- or Red Rose at the very least judging from thy hue!"
Mr. Wilson retorts to Pearls previous outburst with the quote above. He directly relates her to the rose bush from the first chapter which is also a key symbol of the theme nature vs society. In the opinion of Mr. Wilson Red Rose, is a suggested name for Pearl since he feels Pearl is not a suitable name for a demonic child. Pearls are of course small shiny cream/white jewels held beloved by many. They are created by sea creatures called clams. I'm saying this because they are produced by an animal that is practically inanimate. A creature that does nothing and in a way is pure. The rose is a plant that depends on season and weather. Also they can be unpleasant if stuck with one of their thorns.
S.L. Chpt 8
#11
"I am mother's child," answered the scarlet vision, "and my name is Pearl!'
Pearl yells at the old minister, Mr. Wilson, which is only natural for her now. After being called a naughty elf or fairy she is referred to by Hawthorn as a scarlet vision.
"An experience of seeing someone or something in a dream or trance, or as a supernatural apparition"
This is the definition for vision in this situation and it strikes me a little. Hawthorne in a way is going back to his Puritan roots by referring to her in such a way. It may be that Hawthorn is just viewing Pearl in the perspective of Mr. Wilson.
When Pearl yells, "I am mother's child," it has been made official that she is becoming or at least wants to become exactly like her mother.
"I am mother's child," answered the scarlet vision, "and my name is Pearl!'
Pearl yells at the old minister, Mr. Wilson, which is only natural for her now. After being called a naughty elf or fairy she is referred to by Hawthorn as a scarlet vision.
"An experience of seeing someone or something in a dream or trance, or as a supernatural apparition"
This is the definition for vision in this situation and it strikes me a little. Hawthorne in a way is going back to his Puritan roots by referring to her in such a way. It may be that Hawthorn is just viewing Pearl in the perspective of Mr. Wilson.
When Pearl yells, "I am mother's child," it has been made official that she is becoming or at least wants to become exactly like her mother.
Friday, November 15, 2013
Chp. 6 S.L.
#10
One day, as her mother stooped over the cradle, the infants eyes had been caught by the glimmering of the gold embroidery about the letter; and putting up her little hand, she grasped at it, smiling, not doubtfully, but with a decided gleam that gave her face the look of a much older child
And a rebel is born! Pearl has chosen what she thinks she likes and that is whatever her mother likes. Since she is raised with only her mother she is her biggest influence. Hester believes that she is doing right and maintains confidence. Little does she know that her handy fancy needle work will be a major symbol in Pearl's life. Along with the color red.
Hester does notice the Pearl's enamor towards her letter but cannot see the possible effects of her exposure this early in the story.
One day, as her mother stooped over the cradle, the infants eyes had been caught by the glimmering of the gold embroidery about the letter; and putting up her little hand, she grasped at it, smiling, not doubtfully, but with a decided gleam that gave her face the look of a much older child
And a rebel is born! Pearl has chosen what she thinks she likes and that is whatever her mother likes. Since she is raised with only her mother she is her biggest influence. Hester believes that she is doing right and maintains confidence. Little does she know that her handy fancy needle work will be a major symbol in Pearl's life. Along with the color red.
Hester does notice the Pearl's enamor towards her letter but cannot see the possible effects of her exposure this early in the story.
Chpt. 6 S.L.
#9
Pearl vs witchery
Pearl seems to have this air of creativity which gives me a very modern child feel about her. Pearl seems to be ahead of her time for as far as children of that day go. With these creative gifts though Pearl also gives a feeling of insanity, or as Puritans would've viewed it witchcraft. She doesn't help her case by scaring off children with her voice or having conversations with herself in different voices. I believe that society is to blame as for what Pearl is becoming. Since she has been labeled by parents, their children will label her the same and continue the cycle of rumors. My point is that Pearl seems to be welcoming a possible demise.
Pearl vs witchery
Pearl seems to have this air of creativity which gives me a very modern child feel about her. Pearl seems to be ahead of her time for as far as children of that day go. With these creative gifts though Pearl also gives a feeling of insanity, or as Puritans would've viewed it witchcraft. She doesn't help her case by scaring off children with her voice or having conversations with herself in different voices. I believe that society is to blame as for what Pearl is becoming. Since she has been labeled by parents, their children will label her the same and continue the cycle of rumors. My point is that Pearl seems to be welcoming a possible demise.
S.L. Chp.6
#8
Pearl
Pearl should rightfully be in a state of mass confusion from all of the views placed upon her. Hester her mother loves her and holds her near and dear to her heart. She is very much a precious treasure to Hester. Society views her as a satanic being because she was born out of wedlock and her dad has just walked out on her. So neglected and yet so loved.
Pearl
Pearl should rightfully be in a state of mass confusion from all of the views placed upon her. Hester her mother loves her and holds her near and dear to her heart. She is very much a precious treasure to Hester. Society views her as a satanic being because she was born out of wedlock and her dad has just walked out on her. So neglected and yet so loved.
Thursday, November 14, 2013
CHp. 5 S.L.
#7
Hester at her needle
Hester is released from prison and shunned to live in a small cottage. The meaning of this chapter is to show the mental test of strength that she is going to be put through. How does Hester cope with semi isolation and a young child? She decides to persevere and occupy her time by sewing. So she practically opens up shop armed with needles and thread. Only problem is that she's not selling them. The citizens like her but only for her handmade clothing. Everyone comes and buys her goods because of her high quality work. Although they do still feel the need to shun and ban her from making wedding dresses for trade since she has been poisoned with sin.
Hester at her needle
Hester is released from prison and shunned to live in a small cottage. The meaning of this chapter is to show the mental test of strength that she is going to be put through. How does Hester cope with semi isolation and a young child? She decides to persevere and occupy her time by sewing. So she practically opens up shop armed with needles and thread. Only problem is that she's not selling them. The citizens like her but only for her handmade clothing. Everyone comes and buys her goods because of her high quality work. Although they do still feel the need to shun and ban her from making wedding dresses for trade since she has been poisoned with sin.
Wednesday, November 13, 2013
S.L. chp. 1
#6
"A throng of bearded men, in sad-colored garments and gray steeple-crowned hats, intermixed with women, some wearing hoods, and others bareheaded"
The description of this group of people is depressing. Very subtly Hawthorn has described a scene of poor people revolting against society. They do so in order to escape a forced religion and suffer greatly, but they succeed. They arrived at what was to be America and were eventually separated into lower and upper class due to the cost of living in an untamed country. Hawthorn has just described poverty in a new town which tells us that the these are hard times for the Puritans but the upper class is sitting quite high and mighty. Since they're puritan though everyone is friendly to each other and there is no conflict between the two. That's where the sinners come in.
"A throng of bearded men, in sad-colored garments and gray steeple-crowned hats, intermixed with women, some wearing hoods, and others bareheaded"
The description of this group of people is depressing. Very subtly Hawthorn has described a scene of poor people revolting against society. They do so in order to escape a forced religion and suffer greatly, but they succeed. They arrived at what was to be America and were eventually separated into lower and upper class due to the cost of living in an untamed country. Hawthorn has just described poverty in a new town which tells us that the these are hard times for the Puritans but the upper class is sitting quite high and mighty. Since they're puritan though everyone is friendly to each other and there is no conflict between the two. That's where the sinners come in.
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
S.L. chp. 1
#5
Nature vs Society
So the Puritans are afraid of the woods. Trees were and are still a very large part of this planets natural habitat. Would they of ever thought they were living in a world of sin?
Puritans believe that Satan lives in the woods so they obviously are, at this time, pro society. Hester is compared to a rose in the first two chapters by her red letter A and the rose by the prison door. She is obviously a symbol of nature and the same with Pearl. In a way nature is placed in a rebellious view by the Puritans through Hester and the establishment of society. Of course there is nothing that nature can do about this, but Hester has the same problem. It may be because she's a single woman with a child, or because there is no other nearby civilizations nearby. Perhaps she wants to be around the priest or maybe Dr. Chillingsworth. What I know is that she has three options that provide opportunity. She could move to another settlment, maybe Plymouth. She could take a chance and try to be accepted by the natives. Last but not least she could go back to Europe.
Nature vs Society
So the Puritans are afraid of the woods. Trees were and are still a very large part of this planets natural habitat. Would they of ever thought they were living in a world of sin?
Puritans believe that Satan lives in the woods so they obviously are, at this time, pro society. Hester is compared to a rose in the first two chapters by her red letter A and the rose by the prison door. She is obviously a symbol of nature and the same with Pearl. In a way nature is placed in a rebellious view by the Puritans through Hester and the establishment of society. Of course there is nothing that nature can do about this, but Hester has the same problem. It may be because she's a single woman with a child, or because there is no other nearby civilizations nearby. Perhaps she wants to be around the priest or maybe Dr. Chillingsworth. What I know is that she has three options that provide opportunity. She could move to another settlment, maybe Plymouth. She could take a chance and try to be accepted by the natives. Last but not least she could go back to Europe.
Chpt. 3 S.L.
#4
The penalty thereof is death. But in their great mercy and tenderness of heart, they have doomed Mistress Pryne to stand only a space of three hours on the platform of the pillory, and then and thereafter, for the remainder of her natural life, to wear a mark of shame upon her bosom.
For some reason the Puritan colony decides take great mercy upon Hester Pryne and give her the sentence above. This was unusual to me since the Puritan religion is strict one when it comes to the law and premarital sex. How could she get off with a mere three hours on the platform of pillory and a beautiful letter upon her dress? Perhaps its just because she's the main character, but I say otherwise! My first belief was that it was because of the circumstances that she had lost her husband. They wouldn't of known if he had died in a shipwreck while on the long voyage across the Atlantic or if he had just stayed in England and ditched Hester. My other idea was that since she has this demonic baby and since the Puritans don't actually know how the baby will actually turn out they might of just said "lets see how things will turn out and leave the mother in charge until we know for sure."
Or Pearl she is pursuing the sunlight because she is a budding flower.
The penalty thereof is death. But in their great mercy and tenderness of heart, they have doomed Mistress Pryne to stand only a space of three hours on the platform of the pillory, and then and thereafter, for the remainder of her natural life, to wear a mark of shame upon her bosom.
For some reason the Puritan colony decides take great mercy upon Hester Pryne and give her the sentence above. This was unusual to me since the Puritan religion is strict one when it comes to the law and premarital sex. How could she get off with a mere three hours on the platform of pillory and a beautiful letter upon her dress? Perhaps its just because she's the main character, but I say otherwise! My first belief was that it was because of the circumstances that she had lost her husband. They wouldn't of known if he had died in a shipwreck while on the long voyage across the Atlantic or if he had just stayed in England and ditched Hester. My other idea was that since she has this demonic baby and since the Puritans don't actually know how the baby will actually turn out they might of just said "lets see how things will turn out and leave the mother in charge until we know for sure."
Or Pearl she is pursuing the sunlight because she is a budding flower.
Monday, November 11, 2013
Chp.7 S.L.
#3
"NO, my little Pearl!" "Though must gather thine own sunshine. I have non to give thee!"
This directly relates to Nature vs society and the idea that Hester is a crimson rose while Pearl is still a budding flower. Since Pearl is a young flower what she needs in order to grow is sunlight. Another view on this situation is what the sunlight was shining on. Since the light is on the front of the large bright house, she may be drawn towards possibly being in a new home or the idea of power and money. Why power and money? Because that's what buys big houses and everybody wants what they can or don't have.
Or power and money is wrong. Perhaps Pearl wants what comes before a house. Maybe a stable life with a father or what is to come later which would be a husband.
"NO, my little Pearl!" "Though must gather thine own sunshine. I have non to give thee!"
This directly relates to Nature vs society and the idea that Hester is a crimson rose while Pearl is still a budding flower. Since Pearl is a young flower what she needs in order to grow is sunlight. Another view on this situation is what the sunlight was shining on. Since the light is on the front of the large bright house, she may be drawn towards possibly being in a new home or the idea of power and money. Why power and money? Because that's what buys big houses and everybody wants what they can or don't have.
Or power and money is wrong. Perhaps Pearl wants what comes before a house. Maybe a stable life with a father or what is to come later which would be a husband.
Friday, November 8, 2013
Vocab 3
Anathem-N.
something or someone that one vehemently dislikes.
The old man was an anathem on oak street.
Emolument-N.
a salary, fee, or profit from employment or office.
Emolument-N.
a salary, fee, or profit from employment or office.
Mountebank-N.
a person who deceives others, esp. in order to trick them out of their money; a charlatan.
Deleterious-ADj.
Harmful or injurious to health
Misanthropy-N.
The general hatred/disgust for the human race.
Indefatigable-ADj.
Persisting tirelessly
Constrained-Vb.
severely restrict the scope, extent, or activity of
Amenable-Adj.
(of a person) open and responsive to suggestion; easily persuaded or controlled
(of a person) open and responsive to suggestion; easily persuaded or controlled
Averred-Vb.
state or assert to be the case.
state or assert to be the case.
Heterodox-Adj.
not conforming with accepted or orthodox standards or beliefs.
Thursday, November 7, 2013
chp 5 S.L.
#2
"Then, she was supported by an unnatural tension of the nerves, and by all the combative energy of her character, which enabled her to convert the scene into a kind of lurid triumph."
This statement reminds of the thoughts of Ralph Waldo Emerson. Simply because she is following her personal beliefs. Hester believes that she has succeeded when she leaves the prison. This is great for her self esteem and impressive for someone just getting out from behind bars. She uses this sense of success and wields it through her needle by making clothes for the poor people of Boston.
"Then, she was supported by an unnatural tension of the nerves, and by all the combative energy of her character, which enabled her to convert the scene into a kind of lurid triumph."
This statement reminds of the thoughts of Ralph Waldo Emerson. Simply because she is following her personal beliefs. Hester believes that she has succeeded when she leaves the prison. This is great for her self esteem and impressive for someone just getting out from behind bars. She uses this sense of success and wields it through her needle by making clothes for the poor people of Boston.
chp 1 S.L.
#1
Nature vs Society.
The scene of the prison door is very contradictory.The prison is a symbol of precaution in the new Puritan city of early Boston. Pretty much before anything else was built, the graveyard and prison were the first to be constructed. I say it's a symbol of precaution because Puritans held very strict rules and publicly humiliated anyone that disobeyed. The rosebush has been conveniently planted next to the prison door. Actually they say it's been there since before the prison was built. This is I guess a symbol of compassion for all prisoners that are entering the prison.
Nature vs Society.
The scene of the prison door is very contradictory.The prison is a symbol of precaution in the new Puritan city of early Boston. Pretty much before anything else was built, the graveyard and prison were the first to be constructed. I say it's a symbol of precaution because Puritans held very strict rules and publicly humiliated anyone that disobeyed. The rosebush has been conveniently planted next to the prison door. Actually they say it's been there since before the prison was built. This is I guess a symbol of compassion for all prisoners that are entering the prison.
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