Comparing Dimmesdale’s current struggle with his sin with Hawthorne’s earlier treatment of Hester and her sin, what is Hawthorne suggesting about the effects of sin?

Sin requires us to examine ourselves thoroughly and to make that examination inside and out. However, Hester becomes more comfortable with her sin once it is exposed; Dimmesdale is tortured by his sin and he tortures himself endlessly. His death ultimately releases him from the effects of his sin, but the price is high.