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.
