"The Scarlet Letter"--An Analysis

Paper Summary:

In this analysis of Nathaniel Hawthorne's novel "The Scarlett Letter," the concept of sin and puritanical society is examined. The reviewer focuses on the protagonist, Hester Prynne, and her development and eventual transcendence of her punishment for adultery. The paper also examines the role of Hester's daughter, Pearl, linking her symbolically with the concept of original sin. The paper concludes by contrasting Hester's strength with Reverend Dimmesdale's downfall.

From the Paper:

"Nathaniel Hawthorne's novel The Scarlet Letter addresses the issue of sin, responsibility, and even salvation in the Puritan society of North America. Sentenced to wear her sin of adultery in the form of the letter 'A' on the outside of her dress, Hester Prynne is forced to live with the ignominy of having borne a child out of wedlock. Hawthorne initially uses the scarlet letter as a symbol of Hester's sin, but the meaning of the letter evolves throughout the novel as Hester is eventually empowered and her secret lover is enfeebled by the sin they had both committed. The evolution of the letter shows the power of accepting punishment and persevering over the enervating capacity of trying to hide and escape sin."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Hawthorne, Nathaniel. The Scarlet Letter. Cleveland: Economy Book League, 1933.

More papers on "The Scarlet Letter"--An Analysis:

• Analytical Essay # 124563 : "Characters in "The Scarlet Letter"
• Analytical Essay # 120733 : "Adultery in "The Scarlet Letter"
• Analytical Essay # 124489 : "Perspectives on "The Scarlet Letter"

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