Reading Observations

Chapter 18 – A Flood of Sunshine

·         Dimmesdale is portrayed as being weak. Hester is portrayed as being very bold. Perhaps that was the reason Pearl exists.

·         Before, Hester and Dimmesdale were both limited by society in many different ways. Hawthorne suggests there is great happiness when relieved from society.

·         It is awkward how Dimmesdale is insecure about how Pearl will treat him.

·         Why is Pearl’s meeting with Dimmesdale so important?

Chapter 19 – The Child at the Brook-Side

·         Hester seems to be marketing Pearl to Dimmesdale.

·         Pearl is like an object rather than a person – she is compared to hieroglyphics, symbols, and elves.

·         Why is it emphasized that young children generally dislike Dimmesdale?

·         Hester and Dimmesdale do not seem to truly love their daughter.

·         The sudden conflict between Hester and Pearl suggests future conflicts.