Question

A tremendous "meteor" appears beneath the canopy of clouds, lighting up the night sky. To Dimmesdale, this light in the sky appears to be a "revelation from a supernatural source." Discuss the symbolic significance of this "revelation." Describe, in particular, how Dimmesdale perceives the zenith of the meteor. In what shape does it appear to him? How do other characters, including the old sexton, perceive that same light in the night sky? Fully explore the possible significance of this symbol to the novel as a whole.

Answer 1

When Dimmesdale sees in the sky a gigantic meteor he could observe the forming letter A, which is formed by the zenith of the meteor.

Step-by-step explanation:

When Dimmesdale sees in the sky a gigantic meteor he could observe the forming letter A, which is formed by the zenith of the meteor. This symbolizes a revelation for him because he was feeling so tormented by his consciousness as he was guilty. Dimmesdale admits his guiltiness to Hester and Pearl, but he is really afraid to confess in public. At the same time that Dimmesdale sees the meteor, Pearl is pointing the image of Roger Chillingworth.

In general, the image of the letter A in the novel is a symbol of an unfortunate situation, but this meaning changes as well according to the situation and the character, for Hester would be A for Adultery but as the novel develops it turns to be A for “able.