Question

What confession does Hester make to Dimmesdale while in the forest in Chapter 17 of The Scarlet Letter?

Answer 1

Hester tells Dimmesdale that Chillingworth is her husband. This news causes a “dark transfiguration” in Dimmesdale, and he begins to condemn Hester, blaming her for his suffering. Hester, unable to bear his harsh words, pulls him to her chest and buries his face in the scarlet letter as she begs his pardon. Dimmesdale eventually forgives her, realizing that Chillingworth is a worse sinner than either of them

Answer 2

In Chapter 17 of The Scarlet Letter, Dimmesdale and Hester agree to meet in the forest. When they meet, they realize how much they have changed, and they talk about the past. However, they eventually arrive to Hester's secret, which is the purpose of the meeting.

Hester reveals to Dimmesdale that Chillingworth is her husband. Dimmesdale is initially angry, but he soon forgives Hester. He also realizes that this explains the complex and contradictory feelings he has had towards Chillingworth in the past.