The Scarlet Letter

Why does Hester prefer to meet with Dimmesdale in the forest rather than in the settlement?

Chapters 16-19

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Last updated by jill d #170087
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Hester prefers to meet Dimmesdale in the forest as a form of protection. She doesn't want to expose him, and because of her precarious position in the community avoids leaving him open to gossip or scrutiny. Hester protects his reputation at the expense of her own. A bit of irony there.....

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The Scarlet Letter