Chapter Summary: The Scarlet Letter

Chapter 1
What is the setting of The Scarlet Letter?
The setting of The Scarlet Letter is a Boston colony.
Why does Hawthorne begin the story with a reflection about the need for a cemetery and a prison?
By beginning the story with a reflection of a need for a cemetery, Hawthorne sets up a dark tone. It also shows that although this new colony is what people call a utopia, there will still be crimes and death.
What is the significance of the wild rosebush that grows beside the prison door?
The wild rosebush symbolizes relief in dark times and hope in such a dreary prison.
Who was Ann Hutchinson?
Anne Hutchinson was a Puritan spiritual adviser and was arrested for being a threat to religious leaders.
What does Hawthorne achieve by his reference

What might this indicate?
This letter A was done artistically and with fertility. This made the people think that she was not ashamed of her sin.

What is accomplished by Hawthorne’s allusion to the Madonna and Child?
The allusion to Madonna shows that Hester really loved her child.
Considering the common use of physiognomy (appearance) in pre-twentieth-century literature, what might Hawthorne be suggesting by portraying Hester as extremely beautiful?
By portraying Hester as beautiful, Hawthorne may be wanting to allow the readers to think that maybe she is a good person beyond her adultery.
What does the flashback reveal about Hester’s past?
This flashback reveals that Hester lived in poverty.
Chapter

This conversation provides background information on Hester's life.
Why wasn’t Hester sentenced to death for her adultery?
Hester is not put to death because of the baby and because they do not yet know who she committed adultery with.
Where has the stranger been? What motion does he make to Hester?
The stranger has been with the Indians and he placed his fingers on his lips.
Who is Dimmesdale? What appeal does he use to convince Hester to reveal the baby’s father?
Dimmesdale is a young clergyman. He tells Hester to reveal the baby’s father because he would feel guilty and he wouldn't live in sin anymore.
What is Hawthorne foreshadowing with the stranger’s prediction that the name of the father will eventually be disclosed?
Hawthorne is foreshadowing that the book will focus on revealing the baby’s father.
What is ironic about Dimmesdale’s reaction to Hester’s refusal to name the father of her child?
After Hester not revealing the baby’s father, Ironically Dimmesdale claimed Hester to be a strong hearted woman and to have a generous