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How Does Chillingworth Change Throughout The Scarlet Letter

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Roger Chillingworth, a small, thin, slightly deformed, former captive of indians, is an important character in “The Scarlet Letter,” written by Nathaniel Hawthorne.The author introduces his character into the story as a kind man willing to help those in need with his barely obtained knowledge. The Puritan society sees as a gift from god. Throughout the story, he becomes obsessed with revenge which causes his appearance as well as mental health to deteriorate. Citizens begin to notice his unhealthy mental state and begin to ask questions. With his conscience eating at him, Chillingworth begins to symbolize evil. All characters begin to see that he is beginning to resemble the devil due to his actions and physical appearance. Chillingworth changes drastically throughout the story, which is very important to the development of his character First, during the early stages of introducing Chillingworth’s character, he is betrayed as a nice, intelligent individual. The information obtained by him was lied about to convince the congregation that he was smarter than he actually was. This portrayed him to seem more respectable to others. He offers help to the sick Hester and pearl, this makes people think he is a gift from god. …show more content…

He becomes suspicious of a man named Arthur Dimmesdale and begins caring for the sick man. To the Puritan society, this is another act of kindness which makes them think he is even more respectful. In hopes to catch dimmesdale in a lie regarding to Pearl’s father, Chillingworth becomes so wrapped up in the reveal that Chillingworth’s appearance begins to change due to the amount of stress he is under. This begins to force the community to ask questions. “Now, there was something ugly and evil in his face, which they had not previously noticed…” This quote expresses what the congregation now sees in

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