guilt is an emotion that people experience because they're convinced they've caused harm. it is often caused by a conflict between personal values and choices you've made.

June Tangney, author of the article "Guilt can do good" states there are two types of guilt, public and private. Tangney says the difference between private and public guilt is that "'You feel shame when others know what you've done; you feel guilt when only you know'" (2). For instance, Hester experiences public guilt or shame. She endures all of the hatred of others immediately while Reverend Dimmesdale does not. He faces private guilt. Throughout the novel, only the Reverend knows of what sin he committed and it slowly kills him. Tangney continues and says "'When people feel shame, they focus on the self--they often feel powerless, worthless or exposed. When people feel guilt, they tend to focus on behavior. Guilt is more proactive'" (2). Hester originally endures the shame of her actions and often struggles with her confidence along with self-worth. In contrast, Reverend Dimmesdale's guilt allows him to finally express his shame for what he has done. Finally, she says that society to "emphasize moral change and action, not anxiety and shame" (8).