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"It had been built by an earlier settler, and abandoned, because the soil about it was too sterile for cultivation[...] In this little, lonesome dwelling, with some slender means that she possessed, and by the license of the magistrates, who still kept an inquisitorial watch over her, Hester established herself, with her infant child."(74-75)

This quote conveys many revelations about Hester's life at home. She chose to settle away from society, as one can see. This relates to the theme of society's effect on the individual, since if Hester lived in a settled area, she and her child would face more ridicule than if she settled away from civilization. Also, the land at the site was barren. This is almost symbolic of Hester's act, since her act of adultery would almost seem to render her so. With such a glaring sin, no other men would want to associate with her in any way. That is the meaning behind this quote.

What might be a problem with living away from society?

"[...] poor little Pearl was a demon offspring; such as, ever since old Catholic times, had occasionally been seen on earth, through the agency of their mother's sin, and to promote some foul and wicked purpose."(90)

This quote gives insight on the plight of Hester's daughter. From the start, Pearl was a forsaken child. Being born by sinful means, that is how that would be true. This quote portrays the theme of the nature of evil, since society sees evil, in Pearl's case, as eminent through Hester's act. Pearl may have been born of sinful means, yet, society has no right to assume that she herself would be that way. Considering the time in which the story is set, these would be reasonable explanations for this issue.

What might Pearl's later life be like if this stigma sticks?