I have to answer some questions for my english class on the Scarlet Letter, can anyone help with any of these?
1. Chapter 13- What qualities of Hester's seem to be diminishing during these years of wearing the scarlet letter? What causes these changes?
2. Ch. 19- Give examples of 3 paradoxes
3. Ch. 20-21- Hawthorne writes, "Children have always a sympathy in the agitatoins of those connected with them." Explain how Pearl illustrates this statement.
4. Ch 22-23- Dimmesdale's redeeming action is the climax of the novel. Report what happens.
Dimmesdale describes his impending as "triumphant ignominy." Explain this paradox.
4- Ch 24- Quoting from this chapter, state the theme of the novel.
Explain the symbolism of the tombstone.
If anyone could help me with any of these questions, that would be GREAT!
Thank you for using the Jiskha Homework Help Forum. Rather than doing any work for you, here are some things to help you:
Barron's Booknotes You'll love this site! Be sure to go to the 2nd part where you will find "The Scarlet Letter." (http://barronsbooknotes.com/pmky.html)
Literature Study Guides - SparkNotes Select either "List of Titles" and the letter "S" on the alphabet ruler. You can also select "Author" when you know the author but not the title. You can download & print, but if for example you select the blue "Content" it is there for you to read. Plenty of Study Guides to help you. (http://www.sparknotes.com/)
There are always Cliff Notes but you have to purchase those. The 2 above are "free."
I'm here to help you understand how to answer these questions! Let's break them down one by one:
1. Chapter 13 - To answer this question, you need to analyze Hester's character development throughout the years of wearing the scarlet letter. Look for qualities that seem to be diminishing and think about the possible reasons behind these changes. One way to find the answer is to reread Chapter 13 and take note of any mentions of Hester's behavior, emotions, or interactions with others.
2. Chapter 19 - Look for examples of paradoxes in this chapter. A paradox is a statement or situation that seems contradictory but may reveal a deeper truth or meaning. To find examples, carefully read Chapter 19 and pay attention to any contradictory ideas or situations presented.
3. Chapters 20-21 - Consider how Pearl, Hester's daughter, illustrates the statement that "children have a sympathy in the agitations of those connected with them." Look for instances in these chapters where Pearl shows empathy or understanding towards the emotional experiences or struggles of others. Pay attention to Pearl's behavior, words, and interactions with different characters.
4. Chapters 22-23 - In these chapters, Dimmesdale's redeeming action is described. To report what happens, summarize the events involving Dimmesdale and describe the actions he takes that can be viewed as redeeming. To find the answer, carefully read Chapters 22-23 and take note of Dimmesdale's actions and their significance in the context of the novel.
Regarding Dimmesdale's description of his impending as "triumphant ignominy" in Chapter 23, think about the meanings of the words "triumphant" and "ignominy" separately. Then, consider how these words might seem contradictory when used together. Analyze the context in which Dimmesdale says this and think about the possible deeper meaning or irony behind his words.
In Chapter 24, look for a quote that states the theme of the novel. A theme is a central message or idea conveyed in a work of literature. To find the answer, carefully read Chapter 24 and look for any statements or passages that encapsulate a broader message or idea that can be applied to the novel as a whole.
Lastly, to explain the symbolism of the tombstone, consider its significance in the context of the story. Think about how the tombstone is described, any emotions or reactions it elicits from characters, and any connections it may have to broader themes or motifs in the novel.
Remember to use the resources suggested above to aid in your analysis and understanding of the text. Good luck with your English class!