Why is Hester capable of thinking of a solution to their problems when Dimmesdale is not? Hester is far wiser than Dimmesdale, whose only real gift is his handsome appearance. She has signed her name in the Black Man's book to gain wisdom. Her years of isolation have made her think differently than those constrained by society's laws. Dimmesdale is too busy being a good minister to his congregation to think of himself.