Reverend Dimmesdale

Reverend Dimmesdale

"Life is hard, but accepting that fact makes it easier." this common phrase has
been proven true in many people's lives, but is also a harsh fact that Boston's Rev.
Dimmesdale, a key character in Nathaniel Hawthorne's the Scarlet Letter, had to face.
In this twisted story of deception and adultery set in the Puritan era, Hawthorne
introduces Dimmesdale as a weak and cowardly man who refuses to take responsibility
for his actions. Yet, he transitions to a person who accepts his sins and the
consequences, before it is too late, ultimately finding happiness.

At the beginning of the novel, Dimmesdale has established quite a reputation
for himself. In discussing individual members of the magistrate, the towns people
describe Dimmesdale as a "God fearing" gentleman, "but merciful overmuch (49)".
Due to his actions, all of the people respect and look up to the Reverend.
Throughout the story, Dimmesdale desperately tries to confess, envying Hester, for
her courage, he says, "Happy are you Hester, that wear the scarlet letter openly
upon your bosom! (188)" Even at the end of the novel, when finally attempting to
confess, people are compelled by his final sermon, raving that "never had a man
spoken in so wise, so high, and so holy a spirit, as he that spake this day (p.243)".

Proving that he was a very loved and influential man in the small town.

In further developing Dimmesdale's character, Hawthorne portrays him as a
hypocrite. His outward demean...

Reverend Dimmesdale

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