The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne is a novel full of character study and definition. Hawthorne attempts to discover the effects of sin upon the human mind. With Arthur Dimmesdale, Hawthorne pursues what effects unconfessed sin has on the mind and body. It is clear to see that by not confessing his sin of adultery, Dimmesdale sinks into a sickness and depression that, while he sometimes attempts to break free of, he can never really escape.
             Arthur Dimmesdale begins the novel with the feeling that he should confess, though at the start, his health has not been affected, only his conscience. One person remarks, in regards to Dimmesdale, that he, "takes it very grievously to heart that such a scandal should have come upon his congregation." During this very early part of the novel, Dimmesdale is complete in his disguise. Everyone thinks that he is very displeased with what Hester has done. Governor Bellingham supports Dimmesdale fully and asks him to help purge Hester. "'Good Master Dimmesdale,' said he, 'the responsibility of this woman's soul lies great with you." At this point, Dimmesdale becomes trusted with Hester's soul. The irony is that he is the other sinner at the scaffold at this moment. "...I charge thee to speak out the name of they fellow-sinner and fellow-sufferer!" Dimmesdale commands of Hester. He is not strong enough to confess. Dimmesdale, while not wanting to confess, seems to wish that perhaps Hester will speak for him. "...And stand there beside thee on they pedestal of shame, yet better were it so, than to hide a guilty heart though life." Dimmesdale is having an attack of conscience. He is asking Hester to confess for him, though she will not. This would be the beginning of Dimmesdale's demise.
             As the novel progresses, the sin eats away at Dimmesdale slowly, but surely. Roger Chillingworth eventually steps into th...