Final answer:
In The Scarlet Letter, Hester criticizes Chillingworth's actions and words, highlighting the contrast between his outward behavior and his true nature.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the novel The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne, Hester Prynne makes a comment to Roger Chillingworth, her husband, in which she criticizes his actions and words. She says, 'Thy acts are like mercy, but they words interpret thee as a terror!'.
In this statement, Hester is expressing her observation that Chillingworth's actions may seem kind and merciful, but his words reveal a different side of him that is intimidating and terrifying.
This comment reflects the contrast between Chillingworth's outward behavior and his true nature, and suggests that his true intentions and character are masked by his seemingly benevolent actions.