Dimmesdale’s confession in the third scaffold scene and the climax of the story is the action that ensures his salvation. The reader senses that whether chosen or earned, Dimmesdale’s salvation is a reality. Having had several opportunities to confess, without success until this scene, true to his nature if not his ministry, he asks God’s forgiveness not only for himself, but also for Chillingworth, who confirms the minister’s triumph when he laments, “Thou hast escaped me! . . . Thou hast escaped me!” Dimmesdale’s confession also brings about Pearl’s humane metamorphosis.
In the long run, Dimmesdale has not the strength of Hester Prynne or her honesty. He cannot stand alone to confess. In death, perhaps he will find a gentler judgment that his own or that of his fellow citizens of Boston.
