The Scarlet Letter Chapter summaries

Chapters 1 - 4

The novel begins with a description of the town of Boston in the 17th century. The city is described as gloomy and …

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Chapters 5 - 8

Hester is released from prison after a few months. She refuses to leave Salem, although the people will treat her like an …

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Chapters 9 - 12

Chillingworth has hidden his identity after moving to Salem, except for Hester, who swore she would keep it a secret. He …

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Chapters 13 - 16

The present condition of Dimmesdale shocks Hester, who later speaks to Chillingworth about how the Minister is treated. …

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Chapters 17 - 20

Hester and Dimmesdale get a moment of privacy in the forest. They get a strange feeling of being dead but embrace each …

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Chapter 21 - Conclusion

The public gathers once again in the marketplace. The last time this happened was when Hester was shamed. Hester takes Pearl …

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