Final answer:
Pearl's reaction to Dimmesdale is initially wary and distant, but she eventually becomes a catalyst for his redemption. Pearl symbolizes the consequence of Hester and Dimmesdale's sin, as well as a combination of innocence and wildness.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Nathaniel Hawthorne's The Scarlet Letter, Pearl's reaction to Reverend Dimmesdale fluctuates throughout the novel. Initially, she is wary and distant, recognizing that he holds a special significance in her and her mother's life, yet not openly acknowledging him as her father. Pearl represents the living consequence of her parents' sin, often reminding them of their guilt and shame, especially with her fascination with the scarlet letter that Hester wears.
On a symbolic level, Pearl is a constant reminder to both Hester and Dimmesdale of their shared sin. She is also a complex symbol of innocence and wildness, embodying the passion that led to her conception and the innocence of a child who is unaware of the societal implications of her birth. As the novel progresses, Pearl becomes more attuned to Dimmesdale's private pain and, when he finally acknowledges her as his child, she humanizes him, allowing him to redeem himself.