The Scarlet Letter, Chapter 18 summary
Chapter 18 of 25 · 9 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 18, Arthur Dimmesdale decides to flee with Hester Prynne, and both feel renewed joy as she removes the scarlet letter and loosens her hair. Their shared hope turns toward Pearl, whom Hester calls from her forest play, though the child approaches slowly because she sees the minister.
What happens
- The narrator contrasts Hester’s freedom of thought with Dimmesdale’s strict conscience and attachment to social rules.
- Dimmesdale resolves to flee with Hester and feels an unexpected return of hope and religious joy.
- Hester throws away the scarlet letter and releases her hair, while sunshine brightens the forest.
- Hester calls Pearl and reassures the uneasy minister that the child can love him.
- Pearl decorates herself with woodland plants after playing among wild creatures, then approaches slowly because she sees Dimmesdale.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Hester treats their decision as a break with suffering and shame. Her removal of the letter gives this wish a visible form.
Quick check
Where does Hester’s discarded scarlet letter land?
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