How is the attitude of the townspeople toward Hester changed during the seven years since her "crime" was committed?

The attitude of the town is much changed in regards to Hester Prynne. Hawthorne says that while hatred can exist in humans, it may also change to love if there's no further irritation, and in the case of Hester, there was no further irritation. She takes her punishment with grace and lives piously. She helps the sick and offers council and advice to others. Her kind and compassionate nature causes the town's people to look on her in a much more positive light, often saying that the letter upon her chest better suited the word 'Able', as she was an excellent example of women's strength.