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Chapter 12
Themes
Key
LitCharts assigns a color and icon to each theme in The Scarlet Letter, which you can use to track the themes throughout the work.
Sin
Individuality and Conformity
Puritanism
Nature
The Occult
Summary
Analysis
Seven years have now passed since Pearl's birth. Hester has become more accepted by the community, and the embroidered scarlet letter has evolved into a "symbol of her calling," not just her sin.
The symbol of Hester's punishment now is a mark of her personal skill as a seamstress.
Themes
Literary Devices
Quiz
Test Yourself
Nonetheless, Hester still lives on the outskirts of town, her hard life has stolen her beauty and spirit, and she now dwells in the realm of thought and solitude, not passion. She doubts whether her own life is worth living, and contemplates murdering Pearl and then committing suicide.
Hester's reputation improves, but because of her sin Puritanism says she'll never reach heaven. By withholding forgiveness, Puritanism makes it pointless for sinners to stop sinning.
Themes
Quiz
Test Yourself
Hester decides that she must help Dimmesdale by confessing that Chillingworth was her husband, thereby revealing the vengeful motive behind his harsh treatment of Dimmesdale.
Hester, the "sinner" intends to save Dimmesdale, though "innocent" Dimmesdale never tried to save her.
Themes
Quiz
Test Yourself
