After her ordeal, where did Hester choose to live? Why?
Hester had an option of moving away from Boston to some other settlement or even back to England and start anew under a different identity in order to escape from her notoriety in Puritan society. Despite being publicly ashamed, she decided to remain close to Boston. Hester found a cottage in the woods on the outskirts of Boston that was abandoned because it was located on infertile land. She decided to remain in Boston for a few reasons. One reason being that Hester, through her sinning and public humiliation, formed an deep bond with the Boston society: "The chain that bound her here was of iron links, and galling to her inmost soul, but could never be broken" (74). Another reason that she may have remained in Boston is that she hoped that by staying there, she would be able to see Pearl's father. She hoped that together they could withstand the judgement of society together as if they were husband and wife (74). A third reason that Hester stayed in Boston is that she should remain in the place that she sinned for her punishment. By enduring her shame, Hester believed she could have regained her purity and become saint-like(74).
What occupation did Hester take up?
Hester became a seamstress in Boston because of her incredible talent in needle work. She made highly desired ornate clothing for governors, for the poor, and for funerals. However, nobody would hire her to make wedding clothing because people thought it was inappropriate to be wed using clothing made by a woman that committed adultery. (76)
Hester and Child
"She ascended a flight of wooden steps, and was thus displayed to the surrounding multitude."
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