Arthur Dimmesdale Traits

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In the book, The Scarlet Letter, by Nathaniel Hawthorne, he makes many characters with flaws that make them human. Characters have positive and negative traits that work together to make a more unique and human character. Arthur Dimmesdale specifically has many instances in the book where this can be seen. Dimmesdale has both positive and negative traits that make him a more humane character. Dimmesdale’s job as a revenant and preacher provides many positive traits, the fact that he is a sinner provides many negative traits, and the conjunction of both positive and negative traits interact to make a very unique and humane character. In the Scarlet Letter, Dimmesdale has many positive traits that can be analyzed resulting from his job as a preacher …show more content…
Your present life is not less holy, in the very truth, that it seems in people's eyes. Is there no reality in the penitence thus sealed and witnessed by good works? And wherefore should it not bring you peace.” In this quote, Hester can be seen stating that Dimmesdale has earned repentance through his good works. I think this shows the good side of Dimmesdale as he has been doing his best effort in trying to repent of this sin to no avail. Even though he feels like he has not repented, he is still doing good for the townspeople and this is why many people like him and follow him as their leader. Another example of a positive trait of Dimmesdale is yet again when he is discussing with Hester their plans of escaping to Europe. “Wretched and sinful as I am, I have had no other thought than to drag my earthly existence into the sphere where providence hath placed me. Lost as my own soul is, I would still do what I can for other human souls! I dare not quit my post,” This quote shows how Dimmesdale is first reluctant when Hester proposes the idea of running away to Europe. I think the fact that he is so devoted to his post as a reverend is a good trait as he is committed to helping

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