Question

Read the excerpt relating to Roger Chillingworth from Chapter 4 of The Scarlet Letter.

“Even if I imagine a scheme of vengeance, what could I do better for my object than to let thee live,—than to give thee medicines against all harm and peril of life,—so that this burning shame may still blaze upon they bosom?”—As he spoke, he laid his long forefinger on the scarlet letter, which forthwith seemed to scorch into Hester’s breast, as if it had been red-hot. He noticed her involuntary gesture, and smiled.

What does the excerpt reveal about Roger Chillingworth?



A.He is committed to ending Hester’s suffering.

B.He has no intention of truly alleviating Hester’s suffering.

C.He is honorable, regardless of his own suffering.

D.He has no intention of allowing Hester to live a life of shame.

Answer 1

b. he has no intention of truly alleviating Hester's suffering. He would rather give them medicine and make sure they live with their shame and guilt; rather than "making a scheme". hope this helps!

Answer 2

Answer: B. He has no intention of truly alleviating Hester’s suffering.

In this excerpt, we can see Roger Chillingworth trying to give medicine to Hester. He is a doctor, and he is meant to help her feel better. However, he is also her scorned husband. He tells Hester that he will not kill her, because even if he wanted vengeance, the best revenge is to let her live so she can always suffer due to her shame. He smiles when he touches the scarlet letter. This shows that he does not really feel pity towards her, and in fact, wants her to suffer.