The Scarlet Letter - Entry #3 - Chapters 7-9

I am starting to feel as though the book is starting to get more engaging as it goes on. I'm starting to like the dramaaa! Ha ha!

 

In chapter seven, Hester hears rumors that the town may take Pearl away from her because she may be a "demon-child", and that they will do it for Hester's safety. I perceived this as yet another hypocritical event in this story. Pearl is supposed to be a form of punishment for Hester, a symbol of shame, and the town wants to take away this punishment that was declared for her by the very people who want to take her away. But even though Pearl may be considered a symbol of shame for Hester, I also see her as a guardian angel for Hester. I thought this when a group of kids tried to fling mud at the pair and Pearl, who is three at the time, scares them away. I think that's incredible because how scary could a three year old possibly be?  

 

In chapter eight, Hester and Pearl see Governor Bellingham to determine if Hester will keep her daughter. Minister Dimmesdale speaks up for them saying that Pearl serves as both a blessing and a curse, which wins over the governor. Mysteriously, Pearl takes a liking to Dimmesdale and he also seems to be very fond of her. I think that he is Pearl's father! I actually find this rather obvious, considering the continuing theme of hypocrisy. Adultery is considered a sin in the bible and the town's minister is the most likely identity of Pearl's father in my eyes, only considering how they naturally feel towards one another. At the end of the chapter, the governor's sister invites Hester to a witch's gathering, which she refuses because she has Pearl. This further supports the theory that Pearl is a form of a guardian angel for Hester, keeping her out of harms way. Witchcraft is also considered work of the devil in these times, and since Pearl keeps Hester away from these events, it contradicts the idea that she is a "devil-child".

 

In chapter nine, Chillingsworth is incorporated into the town as the official doctor. Right around this time, Minister Dimmesdale is getting ill complaining of chest pain. Chillingsworth takes Dimmesdale to his home as a patient. I found this funny; predictable even. Of course the undercover husband of the adulterer would take the adulterer's lover into his home not knowing who he is! This book is beginning to sound just like a soap opera! Also even further supporting the theory of Dimmesdale being Pearl's father, his room is adorned with biblical symbols of adultery and their punishments. This makes it seem like Dimmesdale feels guilty that he sinned, but he truly loves Hester. It shocks me that just these symbols don't bring this theory to Chillingworth's attention. He seems like a smart man, but sometimes the author just can't resist creating more suspense and "mystery". I like the drama, I just don't appreciate how it's being told to the reader.