Mistress Hibbins and the Supernatural

The subplot involving Mistress Hibbins, the Governor's witch-like sister, who represents the supernatural and the dark undercurrents of Puritan society.

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Mistress Hibbins' First Appearance

The Witch's Invitation A Sinister Figure After Hester successfully pleads for Pearl, Mistress Hibbins appears at a lattice window. She is described as bitter-tempered and ill-omened. She invites Hester to join a merry company in the forest, hinting at a meeting with the Black Man. Hester's Refusal Hester refuses, saying she must stay with Pearl. But she adds that if they had taken Pearl, she would have signed the Black Man's book with her own blood. This shows Hester's desperation and the witch's influence. A Symbol of Temptation Mistress Hibbins represents the temptation of the dark side. She is later executed as a witch, but in the story, she remains a shadowy presence. Her encounters with Dimmesdale and Hester highlight the theme of hidden evil.

Mistress Hibbins and Dimmesdale

A Knowing Smile The Encounter in the Street After Dimmesdale's conversation with Hester in the forest, he meets Mistress Hibbins on the street. She smirks and hints that she knows he has been in the forest. She claims to be privy to the secrets of the Black Man. Dimmesdale's Denial Dimmesdale denies any knowledge of the Black Man, but his denial is weak. Mistress Hibbins laughs and says they will talk more at midnight. The encounter shakes Dimmesdale, who wonders if he has indeed sold his soul. The Witch's Knowledge Mistress Hibbins seems to have insight into the hidden sins of the community. She is a foil to the hypocritical piety of the Puritans. Her presence reminds the reader that the forest is a realm of darkness and freedom, separate from the strictures of the town.

Mistress Hibbins at the Election Day

The Witch in the Crowd A Grand Appearance Mistress Hibbins appears at the Election Day ceremony in rich attire, with a triple ruff and a gold-headed cane. The crowd gives way before her, fearing her supernatural powers. She speaks to Hester, hinting that Dimmesdale has a secret mark. The Conversation with Pearl Mistress Hibbins tells Pearl that she is of the lineage of the Prince of the Air and invites her to ride through the night. Pearl is intrigued, but Hester is alarmed. The witch's words suggest that Pearl has a special connection to the demonic world. The Execution It is mentioned that Mistress Hibbins was later executed as a witch. Her role in the story is to provide a contrast between the open sin of Hester and the hidden sin of the community. She represents the ultimate fate of those who consort with evil.

during the scene at the Governor's mansion

after Dimmesdale's return from the forest

Election Day