Rev. Arthur Dimmesdale

been proven true in many people's lives, but is also a harsh fact that Boston's Rev.

Dimmesdale, a key character in Nathaniel Hawthorne's the Scarlet Letter, had to face.

In this twisted story of deception and adultery set in the Puritan era, Hawthorne

introduces Dimmesdale as a weak and cowardly man who refuses to take responsibility

for his actions. Yet, he transitions to a person who accepts his sins and the

consequences, before it is too late, ultimately finding happiness.

At the beginning of the novel, Dimmesdale has established quite a reputation

for himself. In discussing individual members of the magistrate, the towns people

describe Dimmesdale as a "God fearing" gentleman, "but merciful overmuch (49)".

Due to his actions, all of the people respect and look up to the Reverend.

Throughout the story, Dimmesdale desperately tries to confess, envying Hester, for

her courage, he says, "Happy are you Hester, that wear the scarlet letter openly

upon your bosom! (188)" Even at the end of the novel, when finally attempting to

confess, people are compelled by his final sermon, raving that "never had a man

only his, but also Pearl's impish, condition; giving her what she had been yearning for

of Dimmesdale's control. For example, bizarre thoughts and hallucinations take over

holy man. However, before the action of the novel begins, he stumbles into sin, by

that he wants to repay her for her loyalty. As if his honesty was a final cure for not

a vivid, and memorable picture in one's mind.

Some topics in this essay:
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