In Nathaniel Hawthorne's novel, The Scarlet Letter, guilt is one of the most revealing emotion that strongly displays a person's character. What exactly is the meaning of guilt? "Guilt is the state of knowingly doing wrong by concealing the truth." Guilt is knowing that it is wrong not to confess and seek forgiveness, but unable oneself to do so.
             Guilt is a frightful feeling for anyone to bear with. Guilt is not freedom. Guilt is successful when you have purposely done something wrong and consciously aware of it's existence. It's parts consist of silence, torment, and weakness. Guilt is black, cruel, and internal grief. This kind
             Arthur Dimmesdale is a perfect example of a person who shields his guilt from others. For instance, in the novel, Dimmesdale knew of his misconceptions, yet he chose to battle his personal feelings to intervene with public humiliation. Arthur Dimmesdale knew of his deception, but decides to bury his true character of not being perfect and of human commitment to sin. As Dimmesdale is so desperate and weak he tells Hester, "I am on my earthy existence in my sphere where Providence hath placed me" (206). Dimmesdale takes on his responsibilities of sin and confronts his townspeople, "At last!-at last!- I stand upon the spot where, seven years since, I should have stood" (265).
             In conclusion, guilt is a very strong feeling many people suffer with and it is their decision whether they decide to bring it out in the open or to suffer with it in themselves. One must remember to keep in mind that the consequences of not being true to yourself and others will eventually catch up with you sooner or later.
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