Early Chapters:
* Initially, Chillingworth arrives in Boston as a stranger seeking medical assistance. He is described as a "grave and aged man" with a mysterious past. He doesn't reveal his true identity to anyone, including Hester.
* He stays in Boston and eventually sets up his practice as a physician. He becomes highly regarded and even attends to Governor Bellingham.
* He secretly establishes a connection with Hester and Dimmesdale. He becomes the "secret sharer" of Dimmesdale's hidden guilt and starts to manipulate him psychologically.
Later Chapters:
* His true identity is revealed to Hester, who is shocked and horrified. He explains his motives and his intention to punish Dimmesdale.
* He manipulates the situation and uses his influence to gain access to Dimmesdale's life. He even lives with them in the same house, furthering his torment of Dimmesdale.
* Chillingworth often stays at Dimmesdale's residence, using his skills as a physician to monitor Dimmesdale's health and manipulate his mental state. He becomes a constant presence in their lives.
The Climax:
* He reveals his true identity to the entire community, causing a major scandal and further ostracizing Dimmesdale.
* Chillingworth remains in Boston until Dimmesdale dies, his life driven by vengeance.
The End:
* He dies shortly after Dimmesdale's death, his mission of revenge fulfilled.
* He is buried with a tombstone that reads "Here lies the Black Man."
In essence, Chillingworth is present in the narrative throughout, though his location changes as the story progresses. He is:
* A stranger who arrives in Boston.
* A respected physician who sets up practice.
* A manipulative figure who stays at Dimmesdale's residence and torments him.
* A vengeful figure who reveals his identity and drives Dimmesdale to his death.
His physical presence and influence, along with his manipulative nature, are key aspects of the novel's themes of guilt, sin, and the dark side of human nature.