symbolism in - scarlet letter

A detailed Summary of symbolism in - scarlet letter

A symbol is a person, place, thing or event that has meaning in itself and that also stands for

something more. Direct statements of feeling can sometimes be inadequate; instead the use of

striking symbols to evoke complexities of mood and meaning are much more interesting to read and

analyze to truly appreciate a classic piece of literature. In his novel, The Scarlet Letter, Nathaniel

Hawthorne makes extensive uses of symbolism. People and objects are symbolic of events and

thoughts. The letter "A," the forest, the characters and the scaffold scenes all take a larger meaning,

which enhance the theme and the plot of the play.

The Scarlet Letter is a compelling story which explores the inner emotions of the human

mind, spirit, and the heart. (Scharnhorst, 11) Set around the 1640s in a Boston Puritan society, it

focuses on the moral issue revolving around the virtue of truth and the evil of secret sin. Reverend

Arthur Dimmesdale, a man of profound knowledge of religion and a true devotee of God, commits a

crime of passion with the young and married Hester Prynne. The Puritan society, which barely

tolerates any sin, seeks out Hester Prynne and punishes her by making her wear the scarlet letter "A."

Nature is an amusing hobby for Pearl; therefore one of her favorite activities is playing with

than not, she shows her intelligence and free thought, a trait of the Romantics. Pearl is a virtual

is significant. It shows growth in the characters, and the community in which they live. The letter "A"

begins as a symbol of sin. It then becomes a symbol of Hester's ability to do and help things, and

the letter on her dress. Here the scaffold represents her unwillingness to accept her sin. She is

overcome her yearning and patient waiting for Dimmesdale.

quiet Pearl by refastening the letter of shame on her bosom. Pearl's cry reminds Dimmesdale of the

Hawthorne uses the powerful scaffold setting three times throughout his novel to portray the

pointing her small finger too." (191) This symbolizes Pearl commanding Hester to return the letter to

her a chance to become the humble and faithful Puritan that she once was. (Scharnhorst, 57) Hester's

because it shows how the Reverend wishes to confess his sins and overcome them. It also is apparent

Approximate Word count = 1906
Approximate Pages = 8 (250 words per page double spaced)

Category: English

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