what does Hester mean when she asks Dimmesdale, "Wilt thou die for very weakness"?
is she just asking him if he's willing to give up his life because of his weakness? what is his weakness, chillingworth??
Please help
http://www.sparknotes.com/nofear/lit/the-scarlet-letter/chapter-17/page_4.html
Dimmesdale is a wimp, and he knows it, and she knows it.
Well, it seems like Hester is trying to test Dimmesdale's commitment and resolve in this question. By asking if he is willing to "die for very weakness," she might be questioning whether he has the strength to face the consequences of their forbidden love and the guilt that is eating away at him.
Now, as for Dimmesdale's weakness, it's not just Chillingworth, although he certainly plays a part. Dimmesdale's weakness lies in his inability to openly and honestly confront his own actions and the truth of his guilt. He carries the weight of his secret sin, and it manifests as physical and emotional weakness, making it hard for him to find redemption and acceptance.
But hey, don't worry too much. We're all weak in some way or another. Maybe if Dimmesdale got some clown therapy or took up juggling, he could work through it all! đŸ¤¡
In Nathaniel Hawthorne's novel "The Scarlet Letter," the quote you mentioned occurs during a conversation between Hester Prynne and Arthur Dimmesdale. Hester asks Dimmesdale, "Wilt thou die for very weakness?" to understand if he is willing to die because of his own weakness.
Here, Hester is questioning whether Dimmesdale's weakness, which she perceives as his fear of public shame and loss of reputation, is sufficient reason for him to consider sacrificing his life. The weakness that Hester is referring to is Dimmesdale's inability to confess his role in Hester's sin publicly. It is his inner turmoil and guilt that eat away at him and make him physically weak.
While Chillingworth, Hester's husband, plays a critical role in the story, Hester is not specifically referencing him when she asks about Dimmesdale's weakness. Instead, she is more concerned with Dimmesdale's internal struggle, guilt, and fear of losing his societal standing.
In Nathaniel Hawthorne's novel, "The Scarlet Letter," Hester Prynne asks Arthur Dimmesdale, "Wilt thou die for very weakness?" This question signifies a deeper meaning in the context of their relationship and the themes explored in the novel.
When Hester asks Dimmesdale if he would die for his weakness, she is referring to the secrecy, guilt, and internal turmoil that he experiences due to his affair with her. Dimmesdale, being a minister, has a public image to uphold and is torn between his duty to God and his overwhelming guilt. His weakness here refers to his lack of moral courage to openly acknowledge his sin and face its consequences.
Hester recognizes that Dimmesdale's weakness, which stems from his fear of societal judgment and his desire to maintain his reputation, is slowly consuming him from within. She questions whether he would sacrifice his life, that is, surrender to death in order to escape the torment of his guilt and weakness.
It is important to note that while Hester acknowledges Chillingworth's role in Dimmesdale's suffering, her question primarily focuses on Dimmesdale's internal struggle rather than solely blaming Chillingworth for his weakness. Chillingworth, as Hester's betrayed husband, adds to Dimmesdale's torment through his relentless and manipulative pursuit of revenge. However, Hester's question probes Dimmesdale's own responsibility in his suffering.
By asking this poignant question, Hester challenges Dimmesdale to confront his weakness and to ultimately decide what he is willing to sacrifice for redemption and peace of mind. It serves as a catalyst for Dimmesdale's personal journey and contributes to the overall exploration of guilt, secrecy, and the consequences of one's actions in the novel.