(2) What does the scaffold symbolize in this passage? a. Hester's redemption b. Hester's rebellion c. The town's forgiveness d. Public shame and judgment

To determine what the scaffold symbolizes in the passage, we need to consider its role and significance within the context of the story. In Nathaniel Hawthorne's "The Scarlet Letter," the scaffold is a central symbol that represents public exposure and the judgment of society.<br /><br />The scaffold is where Hester Prynne is publicly shamed for her sin of adultery, forced to stand before the townspeople with the scarlet letter "A" on her chest. It serves as a place of humiliation and punishment, highlighting the community's moral condemnation and the harshness of Puritanical judgment.<br /><br />Given this context, the correct answer is:<br /><br />d. Public shame and judgment