Which statement best describes the reason for Dimmesdale's posture after the sermon?

• A. He remains upright
• B. He collapses
• C. He drains his energy completely
• D. He smiles faintly

Answer: (C)

Dimmesdale’s post-sermon state shows the toll of his inner guilt. He pours intense moral energy into the delivery, and when it’s over his body is spent—he seems to lose his strength, as if his energy has been drained by the effort and burden he carries. The scene emphasizes physical exhaustion as a sign of the emotional and spiritual burden, rather than simply standing upright or reacting with a smile. So the best description is that he drains his energy completely because the moment exposes how deeply his secret weight and public preaching take a toll on him. The other options don’t fit because the text highlights fatigue and collapse of vitality rather than mere uprightness, a literal collapse, or a faint smile.