Final answer:
In Nathaniel Hawthorne's novel 'The Scarlet Letter,' Chillingworth's control over his fate is debated as he exhibits both control and being controlled, ultimately being consumed by his obsession.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the novel The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne, Chillingworth's control over his fate is debated. On one hand, Chillingworth is driven by revenge and takes deliberate actions to manipulate and torment Reverend Dimmesdale, thereby showing some level of control over his fate.
However, on the other hand, Chillingworth is ultimately consumed by his obsession, losing his humanity and sense of self in the process. This suggests that he is also controlled by his fate, unable to escape the consequences of his actions.