What? Where? How? Huh??!?! :O "4th post"

The story so far has been an experience I have only seen in epic thrillers mixed in with a little bit of soap opera. I found myself confused with the fact that Hester is now a symbol of "hope"? From the beginning, Hester Prynne had been someone who the minister and even the adults of the town would use to make an example of what "not" to do or thy sha'll live an eternal life of torment type of junk. I feel that this novel is still missing the moment where I and many other readers will know why this specific novel is so worldly renowned and how it has been used as an example for many decades now. Though I feel much thus far is like a cliffhanger the good stuff should come pouring out like a broken damn releases its tons of water pressuring to be released from a small gap. As a reader I have learned that Dimmesdale is the father of Pearl and that even this far Chillingworth is a personal suspect to be working for the devil.

Though much has changed thus far such as the meaning in Hester's symbol on her bosom, Hester's image throughout the town and also Dimmesdale as an overall person. I feel that this might not be the center of the action but it might as well be the tip of the iceberg since the events have all came at a simple halt that will soon be revealed as either a happy ending for Hester or even maybe a surprising turn of events. If I have learned anything from this novel thus far it is to suspect the unexpected. I believe that Reverend Dimmesdale will spill the beans on his situation since the problem is killing him inside or maybe he will follow the story of the "Minister's Black Veil" and take his secret of adultery to the grave. Even so this is one of the only books that I believe is worth the wait and has twist and plots around every couple of chapters.

Question:
How has Pearl developed so far close to your beliefs? How will Dimmesdale relieve his aching heart from his pain (sin)?