The Minister's Black Veil

Question

by Nathaniel Hawthorne

At length Elizabeth sat silent. For a few moments she appeared lost in thought, considering, probably, what new methods might be tried to withdraw her lover from so dark a fantasy, which, if it had no other meaning, was perhaps a symptom of mental disease.

Though of a firmer character than his own, the tears rolled down her cheeks. But in an instant, as it were, a new feeling took the place of sorrow: her eyes were fixed insensibly on the black veil, when like a sudden twilight in the air its terrors fell around her. She arose and stood trembling before him.

“And do you feel it, then, at last?” said he, mournfully.

She made no reply, but covered her eyes with her hand and turned to leave the room. He rushed forward and caught her arm.

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Question
Use the passage from “The Minister’s Black Veil” by Nathaniel Hawthorne to answer the question.

Which statement analyzes how Mr. Hooper’s moral dilemma influences the theme of the story?

(1 point)
Responses

Mr. Hooper’s decision to reject Elizabeth develops a theme related to being brave in the face of adversity.
Mr. Hooper’s decision to reject Elizabeth develops a theme related to being brave in the face of adversity.

Mr. Hooper’s decision to refuse to do what Elizabeth asks develops a theme related to confronting one’s hidden desires.
Mr. Hooper’s decision to refuse to do what Elizabeth asks develops a theme related to confronting one’s hidden desires.

Mr. Hooper’s decision to keep the veil and lose Elizabeth supports a theme related to adhering to one’s moral ideals.
Mr. Hooper’s decision to keep the veil and lose Elizabeth supports a theme related to adhering to one’s moral ideals.

Mr. Hooper’s decision to tell Elizabeth why he wears the veils supports a theme related to the importance of being honest.

Answer 1

The statement that best analyzes how Mr. Hooper’s moral dilemma influences the theme of the story is:

Mr. Hooper’s decision to keep the veil and lose Elizabeth supports a theme related to adhering to one’s moral ideals.

This choice reflects Mr. Hooper's commitment to his moral beliefs and the significance of his actions regarding the veil, which symbolizes the hidden sins and the burdens of human guilt. By choosing the veil over his relationship with Elizabeth, he highlights the theme of moral integrity versus personal connection.