An Analysis of
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THE PROCESSION
An Analysis of Chapter 22
Tone
Solemn, Contemplative, And Dramatic.
Basic Stats
| Intensity | Clarity | Conflict | Resolution | Pacing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thrilling - (4) | Crystal-clear - (5) | There's some - (3) | None - (1) | Moderate - (3) |
Basically...
As a military procession passes through the market-place, Hester Prynne observes a changed and energetic Reverend Dimmesdale deliver an impassioned sermon, while little Pearl questions the connection between her mother and the elusive minister.
In more detail...
Hester Prynne finds herself unable to gather her thoughts when a procession of magistrates and citizens, led by military music, announces the advance of Reverend Mr. Dimmesdale to deliver his election sermon. The procession displays a variety of members, from the soldiers in their bright armor to the eminent magistrates showing the stability of character and the prominent clergyman. As the crowd engages with the event, Hester is engulfed in a sense of doom, and Pearl expresses curiosity about the connection between Hester and Dimmesdale. Also present is Mistress Hibbins, who mockingly speaks to Hester about the minister's secret sins. Hester, caught between public scrutiny and private agony, faces a renewed ordeal as the contemptuous gaze of the townspeople reaffirms her status as an outcast.
Characters
- Hester Prynne
- About - Hester observes the procession, feels disconnected from Dimmesdale despite their shared secret, and endures the renewed judgment of the townspeople as the scarlet letter garners attention.
- Personality Traits - She is reflective, solemn, enduring, and observant, with an inner strength that helps her withstand public scrutiny.
- Physical Characteristics - Hester is characterized by her dignified beauty and the scarlet letter 'A' embroidered on her dress, symbolizing her adultery.
- Character Connections
- Pearl - Pearl is her daughter, born out of the illicit affair, who senses her mother's disquiet.
- Reverend Mr. Dimmesdale - Dimmesdale is the father of her child, and Hester is pained by the emotional and physical distance that now separates them.
- Mistress Hibbins - Hester converses with Mistress Hibbins, who hints at her knowledge of Hester's secret.
- Pearl
- About - Pearl energetically moves around the market-place, exhibiting curiosity about her mother's connection with Dimmesdale, and attracting attention with her wild and beautiful nature.
- Personality Traits - She is characterized by her free-spiritedness, liveliness, and a sense of otherworldliness.
- Physical Characteristics - Pearl is described as evoking an air of beauty and radiance, likened to birds and natural imagery.
- Character Connections
- Hester Prynne - Pearl is Hester's daughter, and they share a deep bond that is tested by the circumstances of their lives.
- Reverend Mr. Dimmesdale - Pearl is intrinsically linked to Dimmesdale as his daughter, though she is not fully aware of this fact.
- Reverend Mr. Dimmesdale
- About - Dimmesdale displays surprising vigor as he marches in the procession and delivers a moving sermon, showing no outward sign of his inner guilt.
- Personality Traits - He is portrayed as enigmatic, with a charisma that affects the townspeople, despite harboring secret anguish.
- Physical Characteristics - His appearance is noted for a mixture of energy and spiritual fervor, a contrast to the weakened state previously presented.
- Character Connections
- Hester Prynne - He shares a hidden sin with Hester, the fathering of Pearl, yet remains distant and unreachable in his public role.
- Pearl - He is Pearl's father but remains disconnected from her and her mother in public circumstances.
- Mistress Hibbins - Mistress Hibbins suggests a sinister connection between herself and the minister, hinting at knowledge of his sinful nature.
- Mistress Hibbins
- About - The eccentric Mistress Hibbins interacts with Hester, suggesting knowledge of shared secrets, and is recognized by the townspeople for her reputed involvement in witchcraft.
- Personality Traits - Known for her sharp tongue and reputation for dabbling in dark arts, she possesses a bold confidence as she moves through the crowd.
- Physical Characteristics - She is dressed in rich and elaborate garments, adding to her witch-like persona.
- Character Connections
- Hester Prynne - Mistress Hibbins confronts Hester about her shared knowledge of the minister's hidden guilt.
- Pearl - She converses teasingly with Pearl, suggesting that she knows more about the child's heritage than she reveals.