Selfish or Selfless?

I chose the passage on page 116 starting with "'True; there are such men,' answered Mr. Dimmesdale..." and ending with "spotted with iniquity of which they cannot rid themselves." I was particularly intrigued by this passage because it forced me to question why exactly Mr. Dimmesdale chooses to keep his sin a secret. Also i began to wonder what I would do in his situation, would i get rid of the guilt and reveal my secret, or keep it buried within me? This particular passage shows that Mr. Dimmesdale does not share his secret love affair with the public, not only to avoid ridicule and shame but to benefit the community. He says that if he was revealed as a sinner "no good [could] be achieved by [him]" thereafter. Is he enduring the pain of both sin and guilt only to protect the faith of the public? I think it would be much harder to cope with constant guilt and shame alone. Wouldn't his load be lightened if he could be with Hester and Pearl instead of Roger? I think Mr. Dimmesdale's secrecy is rather genuine and selfless, rather than an mere attempt to protect his reputation for selfish reasons. Also, being one of the most influential figures in Boston he holds a great responsibility in keeping the community faithful and unquestioning. On the other hand, if he were to reveal his love affair with Hester could he employ his persuasive manner to show that their deed really wasn't harmful? This revelation would change the dynamic of Boston's Puritan society if the people were willing to stay true to their beloved minister. I think Mr. Dimmesdale should realize his power and use it to relieve both Hester and himself from the daily burden of sin and guilt. And, even if Mr. Dimmesdale's explanation of his sin and secrecy were rejected by the public, Hester, Pearl, and he could easily flee and live a life of happiness somewhere else, maybe England. I understand his reasoning and desire not to disturb society's religious beliefs, but maybe later on he will utilize his elevated status in Boston to alter present criticism of Hester and her sin.