The Maypole Of Merry Mount

Describe the various punishments of the Merry Mounters as decreed by Endicott. Do these punishments seem fitting or severe within the context of the story? Why do you think some characters, like Edith and Edgar, are seemingly without punishment while other characters, like the man in the bear costume, are sentenced to death?

How does power play a role in the story? Think of the various kinds of power a person might have—physical, psychological, intellectual, or otherwise. Who has power, and does this possession of power change as the narrative develops?

If you were given the choice between following the false happiness of the Merry Mount priest or the rigid conformity of Endicott, which would you choose? Explain your answer using details from the text. 

Describe the relationships between the characters and the Native Americans. How is the way in which the Merry Mounters regard the Native Americans similar to that of the Puritans? How is it different?

Throughout the story, Hawthorne contrasts the Merry Mounters with the Puritans. Identify some of these contrasts. Can you think of any ways in which these two groups are similar? Support your answer using evidence from the text.