Dimmesdale's Return to Town

Dimmesdale returns to Boston feeling transformed and energized. He is tempted to commit various wicked acts, such as blaspheming to a deacon or teaching bad words to children. He resists these temptations but is shaken by the encounter with Mistress Hibbins, who hints at his meeting in the forest. He burns his unfinished Election Sermon and writes a new one with inspired fervor.