Question

which event described in chapter 2 of the scarlet letter occurs after hester appears in front of the crowd?

onlookers react to the beadles cruelty.
onlookers react to the innocence of the baby.
onlookers react to hesters embroidered letter.
onlookers react to hesters humility.

Explanation:

Analyze the question prompt

Using the Literary Plot Sequencing knowledge point
The question asks which event described in Chapter 2 of The Scarlet Letter occurs after Hester Prynne appears in front of the crowd.

Evaluate the options based on the novel

Using the The Scarlet Letter Analysis knowledge point

• Onlookers react to the beadle's cruelty: The beadle represents the grim authority of the Puritan law, but the crowd's primary focus and reaction are directed at Hester and her letter once she is on the scaffold.
• Onlookers react to the innocence of the baby: The crowd does not express sympathy or react to the baby's innocence; instead, they focus on Hester's sin.
• Onlookers react to Hester's embroidered letter: When Hester stands on the scaffold, the crowd is struck by the elaborate, artistic beauty of the scarlet letter "A" she has embroidered, which many feel mocks their intended punishment.
• Onlookers react to Hester's humility: Hester does not display humility; she stands with natural dignity and pride, which surprises and angers the onlookers.

Confirm the correct sequence

Using the Literary Plot Sequencing and The Scarlet Letter Analysis knowledge points
In Chapter 2, "The Market-Place," Hester is led from the prison door to the scaffold. Once she is in full view of the crowd, the onlookers immediately focus on and react to the beautifully embroidered scarlet letter on her breast.

Answer:

• Onlookers react to the beadle's cruelty.
• Onlookers react to the innocence of the baby.
• Onlookers react to Hester's embroidered letter. (Correct answer)
• Onlookers react to Hester's humility.