Scarlet Letter #4

"'I can teach my little Pearl what I have learned from this!' answered Hester Prynne, laying her finger on the red token. 'Woman, it is thy badge of shame!' replied the stern magistrate" (101)

In the text, Boston is much like Salem from The Crucible as society is unforgiving. There is no profound belief in the forgiveness of sins, and any mistakes that have been made cannot be corrected. Hester's actions have isolated her from society, and the men do not believe she could possibly teach Pearl and keep her from committing the same mistakes. By teaching Pearl about what she has done, Hester will not be redeemed and her shame will always be with her as long as the 'A' is on her chest.

"'It is easy to see the mother's part in her. Would it be beyond a philosopher's research, think ye, gentlemen, to analyze that child's nature, and, from its make and mould, to give a shrewd guess at the father?'" (106)

It is obvious that Chillingworth still thirsts for vengeance and her is getting close to finding his target. By now Chillingworth has used his great ability to read people to find that Dimmesdale is the father. Chillingworth undoubtedly has noticed the way Dimmesdale acts towards Hester and how he defends her. However, along with being a very keen and astute observer, Chillingworth is patient and will not make any spontaneous actions against Dimmesdale. He will contemplate what would be the greatest form of revenge on his enemy, and then execute his plan when the moment is right.