Arthur Dimmesdale In The Scarlet Letter

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The correlation between time and reason is truly an interesting topic of discussion. Many would say that as one grows up he develops useful reasoning skills and becomes smarter overall. Others would argue that as one ages he goes through new life experiences, but one soon starts to lose these skills (and memories). In Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel The Scarlet Letter, Arthur Dimmesdale is the lonesome, but well liked minister. Since he is already an adult he has more advanced reasoning skills than most of the characters of the book. Many readers could make the assumption that he is a nice, well mannered young man. But he has a secret that no one else knows except for his innocent mistress and their offspring. Over time, his knowledge built a …show more content…
Arthur is seen by most as, an inspiring, humble, lovely young man, who does what is within his power to help others who are in need. The combination of Arthur’s secret sin and his occupation led to the development of a highly complex character throughout the novel. Because of his neglection to speak the truth in the beginning of the book, Arthur gained a devious enemy, Chillingsworth. Chillingsworth proclaims that if, “Shouldst thou fail me in this, beware! His fame, his position, his life, will be in my hands, beware” (Hawthorne 58). This quote foreshadows the relationship that Dimmesdale and Chillingsworth will soon create as their paths cross. Even though they haven't formally been acquainted, a reader can easily make the assumption that their soon to be relationship will not be as pleasant. Through the novel Chillingsworth becomes increasingly suspicious of Dimmesdale and his actions. The way that Dimmesdale becomes more isolated and sickly sparks an interest in the eyes of Chillingsworth and gives him a reason to encroach further unto the Minister. As Dimmesdale’s life is clouded by his thoughts and emotions, he begins to develop a …show more content…
Dimmesdale, over time, comes to reason and realizes that family always comes first in a father's eyes. On multiple occasions had the chance to grow exponentially, but he waited until the end of the novel. This devastated his life and his feelings for over seven years. At the end of the book he eventually overcame his difficulties in his life, faced the townspeople and Chillingsworth, accepted the fact that Pearl was his daughter and he wanted her back, and lastly how he really cares for his (hidden) family’s well
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