The Minister's Black Veil

Before he donned the black veil, townspeople regarded Mr. Hooper as

• an outstanding preacher

• a good minister

• a secret sinner

• a harsh critic

Over what group does the veiled minister seem to have the most power?

• the children of the village

• other clergymen in the area

• his congregation

• souls in agony for sinning

Which statement expresses a central theme of the story?

• People are attracted by unsolved mysteries.

• People with faith can overcome any hardship.

• People are often unwilling to face the truth about themselves.

• People who sin should not be forgiven.

What does the village physician most likely represent in the story?

• logic and reason

• welath

• religious superstition

• human emotion

"The Minister's Black Veil" is a parable, which means that characters, events, and details of the setting

• are described in realistic detail.

• are gloomy and sometimes terrifying.

• are usually historic in nature.

• are simplified to teach a moral lesson.

What message about human nature is most strongly conveyed by Elizabeth's caring for Mr. Hooper on his deathbed?

• True love for someone endures despite what that person does.

• Curiosity leads people to do odd things.

• Loyalty always leads to learning the truth.

• Hard work is seldom rewarded in this life.

What message might be conveyed by the veiled minister at the wedding?

• Weddings are joyful, hopeful occasions.

• Sin and death are present even in the midst of joy.

• Secrets between people can destroy trust and love.

• The marriage relationship is very difficult.

What does the black veil most likely represent in the parable?

• secret love

• secret sin

• modeaty

• violence

Based on this story, how would you describe Hawthorne's view of human nature?

• naive

• pessimistic

• idealistic

• uncaring

What can be inferred about Hawthorne's attitudes from the following passage?

"The next day, the whole village of Milford talked of little else than Parson Hooper's black veil. That, and the mystery concealed behind it, supplied a topic of discussion between acquaintances meeting in the street, and good women gossiping at their open windows. It was the first item of news that the tavernkeeper told his guests. The children babbled of it on their way to school."

• Hawthorne thinks that most human beings are respectful of people's differences.

• Hawthorne thinks it is important for people to talk about what is happening in their community.

• Hawthorne thinks most human beings gossip too much.

• Hawthorne thinks children are the worst gossipers.