Explanation:
In Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel, “The Scarlet Letter,” the identity of Pearl’s father is initially shrouded in secrecy, though it is later revealed that the Reverend Arthur Dimmesdale is her biological father. The first clue that Dimmesdale is Pearl’s father can be found in Chapter 3, entitled “The Recognition,” which centers on Hester Prynne and Pearl’s encounter with Dimmesdale in the marketplace. The first clue that Dimmesdale is Pearl’s father occurs in a subtle yet significant manner that is indicative of Hawthorne’s use of symbolism and foreshadowing. Another is Dimmesdale’s reaction to Pearl’s accusation that he will not stand with them on the scaffold.