he physically tortures himself, he fasts vigorously, and holds extended vigils
Dimmesdale begins self-flagellation as a result of his guilt. He punishes himself by whipping his own shoulders in private to atone for his sins.
In Chapter 11 of "The Scarlet Letter," Dimmesdale starts practicing self-punishment as a result of his guilt over his hidden sin. He inflicts physical harm on himself through fasting, vigils, and scorching his chest with a hot iron. These acts of penance serve as a way for Dimmesdale to cope with his internal torment and seek redemption.
The major physical manifestation of Dimmesdale's guilt is the mark on his chest that is revealed before his death. This is his own personal "scarlet letter" that surfaces due to his guilt.
Reverend Dimmesdale's health begins to fail because of the guilt he experiences over the situation with Hester Prynne. He felt guilty over the adultery he committed with her, as well as his own fear to admit his wrongdoing to the community.
When Chillingworth says "No, not thine," he is rejecting the possibility that Dimmesdale's guilt and suffering are a result of external pressures or influences. Chillingworth believes that Dimmesdale's torment is self-inflicted and deeply rooted within himself. This dismisses any explanations that suggest someone else is responsible for Dimmesdale's internal struggles.
Roger Chillingworth wants revenge on Reverend Dimmesdale for having an affair with Hester Prynne. He seeks to torment Dimmesdale as he believes Dimmesdale is partly responsible for the shame and suffering that Hester endured. Chillingworth aims to expose Dimmesdale's guilt and hypocrisy.
Dimmesdale's guilt makes him more relatable and human to the townspeople because it shows his inner struggles and flaws, making him seem more genuine and approachable. People are often drawn to those who show vulnerability and struggle, which can make Dimmesdale more popular among the townsfolk.
He died of an illness of the soul; he died of guilt and torture from Chillingworth.
Reverend Arthur Dimmesdale is a conflicted and tormented character in "The Scarlet Letter". He is a revered Puritan minister who secretly struggles with his guilt and hypocrisy for committing adultery with Hester Prynne. Throughout the novel, Dimmesdale experiences inner turmoil and eventually suffers a physical deterioration as a result of his hidden sin.
Some of the clues that Dimmesdale is Pearl's father include their physical resemblance, Pearl's strong connection and recognition of Dimmesdale, Dimmesdale's guilt and emotional reaction towards Pearl, and hints dropped by other characters such as Hester and Chillingworth. The reveal is confirmed towards the end of the novel by both Hester and Dimmesdale.
Dimmesdale looked pale, weak, and worn out when he met Hester because of the burden of hiding their relationship and his guilt for not confessing his sins. His appearance reflected the inner turmoil he was experiencing.
Mr. Dimmesdale went to the scaffold in town at midnight to publicly confess his sins of adultery and hypocrisy. He felt a deep desire to come clean and seek redemption before the community.
The name of the priest in the novel "The Scarlet Letter" is Arthur Dimmesdale. He is an influential figure in the Puritan community who struggles with the guilt of his secret sin.