Herster reflects on Dimmesdale's sorrow and guilt in this chapter. Do you think he has been aptly punished? Whose punishment is worse? Hester's or Dimmesdale's?

Much of Dimmesdale's punishment in inflicted upon himself. He hides his sin behind Hester and his own tortured soul. Ironically producing Pearl with Hester was the most godly thing he has ever done. Unfortunately the Puritans didn't see it that way. Dimmesdale tortures himself until his end. At least Hester could see things for what they were. Despite Puritan condemnation, she valued herself, her child, and her relationship with Dimmesdale.