Briefly summarize what Dimmesdale tells Hester when she asks, "Is there no reality in the penitence thus sealed and witnessed by good works? And wherefore should it not bring you peace?"
a. Dimmesdale tells Hester that his public penitence and good works do not bring him peace because he is still wracked with guilt and internal torment.
b. Dimmesdale explains that the true reality of penitence and peace comes from acknowledging his sins and seeking forgiveness from God, rather than just performing good works.
c. Dimmesdale confesses to Hester that his penitence is not genuine and that he is struggling with inner conflict and hypocrisy.
d. Dimmesdale expresses to Hester that he is unable to find peace through his penitence and good works because he is still living a lie and cannot truly repent.