Question

Without disputing a truth so momentous, we must be allowed to consider this version of Mr. Dimmesdale's story as only an instance of that stubborn fidelity with which a man's friends-and especially a clergyman's-will sometimes uphold his character, when proofs, clear as the midday sunshine on the scarlet letter, establish him a false and sin-stained creature of the dust. What does the passage suggest about the character of Mr. Dimmesdale's friends?

1) They are loyal and supportive
2) They are skeptical and doubtful
3) They are judgmental and critical
4) They are indifferent and uncaring

Answer 1

The passage suggests that Mr. Dimmesdale's friends are loyal and supportive, as they uphold his character despite clear evidence to the contrary.

Step-by-step explanation:

The passage suggests that Mr. Dimmesdale's friends are loyal and supportive of him despite clear evidence of his wrongdoing. The phrase 'that stubborn fidelity with which a man's friends-and especially a clergyman's-will sometimes uphold his character,' implies that these friends are steadfast in their defense and perhaps even in denial of the true nature of his character. They chose to maintain his good name instead of acknowledging his 'false and sin-stained' actions, which are as evident as 'the midday sunshine on the scarlet letter.'