Dimmesdale’s Attempt To Mock Hester’s Strength A Close Reading Of Chapter 12: “The Minister’s Vigil”

Dimmesdale’s Attempt To Mock Hester’s Strength A Close Reading Of Chapter 12: “The Minister’s Vigil”

Dimmesdale’s Attempt to Mock Hester’s Strength;
A Close Reading of Chapter 12: “The Minister’s Vigil”
Throughout the novel,The Scarlet Letter, Hawthorne explores the differences between public disclosure of sin versus a confined, secret sin. In the beginning of the book Hester is publicly recognized for her sin, while Dimmesdale’s sin remains concealed. As the book progresses, Hester becomes stronger and Dimmesdale progressively appears weaker. In Chapter 12, “The Minister’s Vigil”, Hawthorne describes Dimmesdale’s first confrontation with the scaffold. His actions are an attempt for him to redeem his guilt and regain his strength through public confession, just as Hester previously did; however, the results are very different because Dimmesdale’s contrasting fear prevents him from truly revealing himself. Although he does make some attempt to confront his sin publicly when he approaches the scaffold, Hawthorne makes clear that Dimmesdale’s vacillations between guilt and cowardice are indicative of his unwillingness to be discovered and the continued concealment of his sin.
. It is clear throughout the story that Dimmesdale expresses a need to relieve his guilt. He trys multiple different methods such as sin-themed sermons and self-punishment, yet none of them seem to help. The real solution, which is suggested to him multiple times, would be for him to openly admit his sin. In his final attempt when he approaches the scaffold, he nears that solution as he tries to model Hester’s punishment. Years ago Hester stood on the same scaffold and her sin was revealed. From that point on, through her many condemnations and challenges Hester grows stronger and more resilient. Dimmesdale most likely admires this strength and imagines that he too should approach the scaffold where, “Hester Prynne had lived through her first hour of public ignominy,” (101). Dimmesdale’s guilt prevails as he contemplates being discovered and exposed for his...