A look At Tragic Hero Arthur Dimmesdale in The Scarlet Letter
I. Hawthorne presents Dimmesdale as a tragic hero through Dimmesdale's fixation on his reputation, as well as his struggle with guilt throughout the novel.
II. Hawthorne uses an evil register of diction and repetition to establish Chillingworth as the antagonist of Dimmesdale. A. “...It grew to be a widely diffused opinion that the Reverend Arthur Dimmesdale, like many other personages of especial sanctity in all ages of the Christian world was haunted either by Satan himself, or Satan’s emissary in the guise of old Roger Chillingworth.(Hawthorne, 116) 1. Hawthorne uses an evil register of diction in the words “haunted” and “Satan” applied to Chillingworth, which highlights his evil nature. 2. The repetition of “Satan” illustrates the connection of Chillingworth and the devil. B. “Guessing correctly that Dimmesdale is the culprit, he pursues him mercilessly, driving him to an early grave.” (Bloom, 23) 1. Bloom reinforces Chillingworth’s evil nature saying that Chillingworth is “driving” Dimmesdale to an early death.
III. Hawthorne uses a religious register of diction and powerful word choice to demonstrate Dimmesdale as a well loved leader and model in the community. A. “They deemed the young clergyman a miracle of holiness. They fancied him the mouthpiece of Heaven’s message of wisdom, and rebuke and love. In their eyes, the Very ground on which he trod was sanctified.” (Hawthorne, 130) 1. Hawthorne uses a religious register of diction in the words “miracle”, “holiness”, and “Sanctified” to recognize his leadership role and reputation within the community. 2. The word choice of “Wisdom” and “love” shows the feelings and respect the people have for Dimmesdale. B. “He alone among the major characters never functions