Question

Read chapter 1, “The Prison-Door,” from The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne and answer the question that follows.

Answer 1

Answer: E. They are a conservative and pious community.

Explanation:

The opening description of the men whom were in “sad-colored garments”, “steeple-crowned hats” and “bareheaded” or hooded women simply shows that the characters were in a conservative and pious community.

The introduction to the Puritan society coupled with the "sad-colored garments" and steeple-crowned hats” shows that the community was dour, and judgmental and the community had people who were traditional, conservative and deeply religious.

Therefore, the correct option is E.