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The Scarlet Letter Chapter 22: Summary, Analysis, and Study Guide

In Chapter 22, titled 'The Procession,' the town of Boston gathers for the Election Day holiday. This pivotal chapter highlights the deep psychological distance between Arthur Dimmesdale and Hester Prynne as the story nears its dramatic conclusion.

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Summary of The Procession

The chapter opens with a grand military and civil procession moving through the streets of Boston. As Arthur Dimmesdale walks toward the meeting-house to deliver his sermon, he appears transformed. Unlike his previous frail state, he moves with unexpected energy and a sense of spiritual elevation. However, this change creates a wall between him and Hester. Despite their secret meeting in the forest just days prior, Dimmesdale seems completely detached from her, ignoring her presence entirely as he passes by in his official capacity.

Character Analysis: Hester and Pearl

While the town celebrates, Hester remains an outcast, standing near the scaffold where her public shaming began. Pearl is confused by Dimmesdale’s behavior, noting that he looks like a different person than the man who kissed her in the woods. Hester feels a renewed sense of isolation as the 'scarlet letter' burns with fresh intensity under the gaze of the crowd. The contrast between her public ignominy and Dimmesdale’s public veneration underscores the central hypocrisy of the Puritan community.

The Role of Mistress Hibbins

Mistress Hibbins, the town’s reputed witch, approaches Hester during the festivities. She speaks in riddles, suggesting that she knows about Dimmesdale’s hidden connection to the Black Man of the forest. Hibbins serves as a dark mirror to the community's secrets, openly acknowledging the hidden sin that Dimmesdale and Hester have tried to keep private. Her presence foreshadows the inevitable revelation of the truth and suggests that no sin can remain truly hidden from the spiritual world.

Key Themes and Symbols

A major theme in this chapter is the conflict between the public persona and the private self. Dimmesdale is at the height of his social power, yet he is spiritually fractured. The 'scarlet letter' also reappears as a powerful symbol, not just on Hester’s chest, but as a metaphorical brand that Chillingworth intends to keep alive. The news that Chillingworth has booked passage on the same ship as Hester and Dimmesdale adds a layer of dread, symbolizing the inescapable nature of their past actions.

Why does Dimmesdale ignore Hester during the procession?

Dimmesdale is consumed by his public role and the spiritual energy of his upcoming sermon. His detachment reflects his struggle to reconcile his private identity as a sinner with his public identity as a holy leader.

What does Mistress Hibbins tell Hester in Chapter 22?

She hints that she knows about Dimmesdale’s secret and predicts that his hidden mark will soon be revealed to the entire world, just as Hester’s letter is visible.

How does Chapter 22 build suspense for the ending?

The suspense is heightened by Chillingworth’s discovery of Hester’s plan to escape. By booking a spot on the same ship, he proves that he remains a constant shadow over their lives, preventing a simple happy ending.

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