Question

american literature a / the gothic americans

1. what shocking plot event sets the stage for the novels climax?

dimmmesdale delivers his final sermon before his departure with hester and pearl.
the sea captain tells hester that chillingworth will also board the ship to bristol.
mistress hibbins explains that dimmesdale does an excellent job hiding his sin.
the indians circling hester believe she is a person of great importance.

Explanation:

In "The Scarlet Letter", the sea - captain's revelation to Hester that Chillingworth will also be on the ship to Bristol adds a major complication and tension, setting the stage for the novel's climax as it disrupts Hester and Dimmesdale's plan to flee together.

Answer:

B. The sea captain tells Hester that Chillingworth will also board the ship to Bristol.