Roger Chillingworth: a Tale of All-Consuming Revenge

Roger Chillingworth, Hester Prynne's older husband, arrives in Massachusetts on the day of her public shaming. Acknowledging their unhappy marriage, he seeks revenge by uncovering the identity of Pearl's father. Becoming the town doctor, he focuses on Reverend Dimmesdale, suspecting his illness is due to unconfessed adultery. Chillingworth's obsession with vengeance transforms him into a devil-like figure, and after Dimmesdale's death, he loses his will to live. Before dying, he leaves his fortune to Pearl, marking one of his few redeeming actions.

What was Roger Chillingworth's profession before coming to America?

• A soldier

• A merchant

• A scholar

• A farmer

Why did Chillingworth send Hester ahead to America?

• He was not interested in going to America

• He was afraid of the sea journey

• He had business to finish in Amsterdam

• He wanted to surprise her later

What does Chillingworth suspect is the cause of Dimmesdale's illness?

• Unconfessed adultery

• A curse from Native Americans

• A hereditary disease

• A physical injury

How does Chillingworth's character change over time?

• He becomes indifferent to others

• He becomes a recluse

• He becomes more compassionate

• He becomes more vengeful and evil

What is one of Chillingworth's few redeeming actions?

• He leaves his fortune to Pearl

• He apologizes to Dimmesdale

• He helps Hester escape

• He confesses his sins