"The Scarlet Letter"

Analytical Essay # 61501

English > Analysis
Literature > American

A review of Nathaniel Hawthorne's novel, "The Scarlet Letter".

1,190 words () | 0 sources | 2005 United States

Paper Summary:

This paper discusses Nathaniel Hawthorne's, "The Scarlet Letter". The paper claims that, although there are multiple themes and recurring ideas throughout the novel, Hawthorne most exquisitely presents the theme of development through anguish, with such elements as character development, symbolism and conflict. The paper focuses on the character of Hester Prynne and her development with the scarlet letter.

From the Paper:

"Hester Prynne is a superb illustration of the way one progresses through misery and the alteration they endure through suffering. When Hester is first introduced in the novel, Hawthorne first describes her, after her bout in prison, emerging "as if by her own free will." This act displays Hester's superiority to the situation at hand, and defies the idea that she would emerge weak, and defeated by the judgment of the people in the town. However, as the novel progresses, Hester does begin to physically embody the typical Puritan woman. After a few years have passed, her character is described as "withered up," which left a "barren harsh outline." This indicates the metamorphosis she has undergone from being superior to her sin, to becoming overshadowed by the supremacy of its ignominy. This change also occurs with Hester's new focus in life, pertaining more so "thought", than "passion and feeling." The most vital shift in Hester's character occurs after Dimmesdale's death, which Hawthorne exhibits as not "for her own profit and enjoyment," and leads to her sought-after wisdom."