What is the purpose of Dimmesdale's conduct on Election Day according to his friends?

• A. To reveal his guilt publicly
• B. To teach a last lesson about sinning
• C. To test the townspeople's faith
• D. To secure a political ally

Answer: (B)

The main idea here is that Dimmesdale’s actions on Election Day are seen by his friends as a deliberate moral demonstration aimed at instructing the town about sin. They view his demeanor—his worn, sickly appearance, his intense preaching, and the way he carries himself before the people—as a purposeful example meant to wake everyone to the seriousness of sin and the need for repentance. Rather than seeking public confession or political gain, they interpret this display as a final, didactic moment: a last lesson about the reality and consequences of sin, shown through the minister’s own suffering and example.

In the story, the theme centers on how public appearances can reveal inner guilt and prompt moral reflection. This interpretation helps explain why the behavior is valued as a teaching moment for the community. The other possibilities don’t fit as well because the scene isn’t about publicly unveiling his guilt at that moment, nor about testing the townspeople’s faith or pursuing political advantage. The emphasis is on moral instruction through example, which is why teaching a last lesson about sinning is the best explanation.