Chillingworth is a character from Nathaniel Hawthorne's novel, "The Scarlet Letter." He is a physician and the estranged husband of Hester Prynne, the story's protagonist. Chillingworth is portrayed as a man of intellect and knowledge, but his character becomes increasingly dark as he seeks revenge on Arthur Dimmesdale, Hester's lover. Throughout the novel, Chillingworth's obsession with vengeance transforms him into a sinister figure. He disguises his true identity and becomes Dimmesdale's confidant, all while secretly plotting to expose his guilt. This pursuit of revenge ultimately leads to Chillingworth's own moral decay and isolation.