Explain the reference to laughter in Dimmesdale's statements: "I have laughed, in bitterness and agony of heart, at the contrast between what I seem and what I am! And Satan laughs at it!"

Question

The Scarlet Letter

Explain the reference to laughter in Dimmesdale's statements: "I have laughed, in bitterness and agony of heart, at the contrast between what I seem and what I am! And Satan laughs at it!"

Chapter 17

Asked by doro b #556553 on 10/22/2016 7:03 PM

Last updated by Aslan on 10/22/2016 9:42 PM

Answers 1

Add Yours

Answered by Aslan on 10/22/2016 9:42 PM

Dimmesdale no longer laughs in happiness. His laughter is tainted with regret, guilt, and sin. Dimmesdale's soul is in agony and the laughter he describes has a tone of mocking and damnation in it.

Answers 1

Log In To Your GradeSaver Account

Create Your GradeSaver Account