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The Scarlet Letter Chapter 21: Key Quotes and Analysis

In Chapter 21, 'The New England Holiday,' the atmosphere in Boston shifts as the town gathers for the Election Day festivities. This chapter is pivotal as it highlights the contrast between Hester Prynne’s hope for a new life and the reality of her social isolation.

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The Atmosphere of the New England Holiday

Hawthorne uses Chapter 21 to describe the somber nature of Puritan celebrations. Unlike modern holidays, this gathering is characterized by a lack of overt joy, reflecting the rigid moral code of the community. Key descriptions often focus on how even in their moments of 'merriment,' the townspeople remain shackled to their disciplined, stern personas. This sets the stage for Hester's internal feeling of impending liberation as she prepares to leave for Europe.

Pearl’s Insight into the Minister

Pearl remains the most perceptive character, questioning why Arthur Dimmesdale will not acknowledge them in public as he did in the forest. Her dialogue often centers on the 'strange, sad man' who has two different faces—one for the private woods and one for the public square. These lines are essential for essays focusing on the theme of public vs. private identity, as they highlight the hypocrisy Dimmesdale struggles with throughout the novel.

Hester’s Final Interaction with the Scarlet Letter

As Hester stands in the crowd, she experiences a sense of detachment, knowing she is supposedly wearing the scarlet letter for the last time. However, the narrative emphasizes that the townspeople still view her through the lens of her sin. Students should look for passages where the letter seems to burn more intensely just as she believes she is about to be rid of it, symbolizing the difficulty of escaping one's past and reputation.

The Plot Twist: Roger Chillingworth’s Intrusion

The climax of the chapter occurs when the shipmaster informs Hester that another passenger has joined their voyage: Roger Chillingworth. This revelation serves as a crushing blow to Hester’s hopes for a secret escape. The dialogue here confirms that Chillingworth’s shadow is inescapable, reinforcing the idea that revenge and guilt cannot be easily left behind on a different shore.

What is the main irony in Chapter 21 of The Scarlet Letter?

The main irony is that just as Hester and Dimmesdale believe they have finally secured their freedom and a way out of Boston, they discover that Chillingworth has anticipated their move and booked passage on the same ship.

How does Pearl describe Dimmesdale in this chapter?

Pearl notices the inconsistency in the minister's behavior. She asks if he will hold their hands in public as he did in the dark forest, pointing out the difference between his public sanctity and private connections.

What does the 'New England Holiday' represent?

It represents the Puritan attempt at celebration, which Hawthorne describes as lacking the true spirit of joy found in other cultures, highlighting the repressive nature of the society Hester lives in.

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