"Had a man seen old Roger Chillingworth, at that moment of his ecstasy, he would have had no need to ask how Satan comports himself when a precious human soul is lost to heaven, and won into his kingdom" (126).
Response
Chillingworth is taking his revenge much too far, he must consider the circumstances. He was stuck in Europe while his beautiful wife who did not love him was in America, it was a recipe for disaster. It is true that what Hester did was wrong but Chillingworth should just forget it, he was not worthy of such a beautiful wife in the first place. Chillingworth is being compared to Satan, a strong comparison considering the society. Two wrongs do not make a right, Chillingworth should forgive rather than seek revenge.
Quote
"Guilty as they may be, retaining, nevertheless, a zeal for God's glory and man's welfare, they shrink from displaying themselves black and filthy in the view of men; because [...] no good can be achieved by them" (120).
Response
Dimmesdale is taking the welfare of society into consideration in his decision to keep his sins private. His motives are understandable but they are making him out to be a hypocrite. If the news comes out from anyone other than Dimmesdale he will lose everything, including his dignity. On the other hand, is he reveals his sin himself he may lose his position but he will keep his dignity. Society is hindering Dimmesdale from confessing as well, if Dimmesdale was not so afraid of the consequences he may have confessed, but he knows he has no chance of redemption.
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