Reading Pointers for Sharper Insights

To better appreciate The Scarlet Letter, we need to examine the symbols that Hawthorne uses:

The Scarlet Letter.  

¨ Having to wear the letter A, representing both adultery and adulteress,

should carry only negative connotations for Hester. Hawthorne, however, places layers of

complexity on this symbol, as he does with many other symbols in the book. Pay attention to

the implications and repercussions of the letter on different characters, and note how the

meaning of the letter changes as the novel progresses, especially how Hester comes to view it.

¨ The prison. Characters are imprisoned both physically and psychologically. Compare the

various forms of imprisonment and determine their effects on the characters.

¨The scaffold. Study the significance of the four scenes that take place on and around the

scaffold. Note how the platform serves as a place for both moral judgment and repentance.

¨Nature. Free of human and social mores, the forest is a sanctuary from puritanical judgment

and persecution, and it is also a place where truths are revealed. Give examples and comment on the irony of this according to Puritan beliefs.

¨ Sunlight. Note the use of sunlight to symbolize truth and happiness. Give examples.

¨ Color. Color is instrumental in emphasizing the mood or tone of the novel. Pay particular

attention to the color of clothing, which Hawthorne uses as an indicator of character traits. Examples:

As you read, be aware of the following concepts:

¨ The consequences of sin:

Hester

Dimmesdale

In what ways do other characters suffer for their sins?

¨ The role of women and how Hester has broken free from society’s concepts of women.

¨ The child as a reflection of the parent:

¨  Marriage as an institution:

¨ The dualistic nature of humankind:

Think about the following archetypes:

The Fall

Haven vs. Wilderness

The unhealable wound

Light vs. Darkness

Questions to consider:

Some critics contend that Hester Prynne, the protagonist, is not simply a classical literary figure, but also an early American heroine: Why?

Hawthorne is listed as a dark romantic and a transcendentalist.  How does The Scarlet Letter fit both literary periods?