Is Chillingworth a real name?
Roger Chillingworth is a fictional character and primary antagonist in the 1850 novel The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne.
Why is Chillingworth called Chillingworth?
There’s another reason why he’s known as the leech: Chillingworth was a doctor, and a common medical practice at the time was bloodletting, often done using leeches. In this way, Hawthorne was able to represent Chillingworth’s profession and character in one symbol.
Does Chillingworth represent the devil?
Nathaniel Hawthorne crammed The Scarlet Letter with religious symbolism. One of the most interesting symbols is that of Chillingworth as the devil. Chillingworth’s shady and sinister characteristics all portray him as the monarch of hell. Nathaniel Hawthorne crammed The Scarlet Letter with religious symbolism.
Why is Chillingworth compared to devil?
Chillingworth’s thoughts of revenge and evilness turns him into a representation of his thoughts. By comparing him to the devil, Hawthorne reveals Chillingworth’s deterioration as a human being while he hurts Dimmesdale, confirming that he cannot escape the consequences of his own sin.
What is the significance of names in The Scarlet Letter?
Hawthorne gives these characters’ names symbolic meaning as way to emphasize their true identity. The symbolism behind their names has to do with who they really are in society. Also, it the light and dark features of the book as Chillingworth is seen as more of a dark character and Pearl as a light.
What does Chillingworth’s appearance symbolize?
Chillingworth’s frailty and deformity signify a lack of passion, which contrasts with Hawthorne’s early description of the hot-blooded Hester Prynne as a tall, elegant figure with an abundance of rich, dark hair. Chillingworth’s appearance devolves as his soul blackens in pursuit of revenge.
How is Hester Prynne name symbolism?
Her first name, Hester, is Greek. Like “Aster” it means Star. This meaning opens up several possible interpretations. A star is a beacon that guides the lost.
What is Chillingworth’s new name?
When the husband sees Hester’s shame, he asks a man in the crowd about her and is told the story of his wife’s adultery. He angrily exclaims that the child’s father, the partner in the adulterous act, should also be punished and vows to find the man. He chooses a new name — Roger Chillingworth — to aid him in his plan.