Do 11. In The Scarlet Letter, Hester Prynne is publicly humiliated for her sin, yet she continues to live with dignity and resilience, often interacting with the people in her community. Despite the shame associated with her punishment, the townspeople seem to view her with a mixture of curiosity and respect over time. Based on the text how do people in the Puritan community most likely regard Hester Prynne? Few acknowledge her existence.as they are preoccupied with their own concerns. Some are critical of her, but others admire her strength and skill. E Many feel sympathy for her, but are also suspicious ous of her independence. E Most see her as a symbol of moral corruption and reject her entirely.