Symbolism in the Scarlet Lette
The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language describes a symbol as something that represents something else by association, resemblance, or convention, especially a material object used to represent something invisible. Nathaniel Hawthorne was known for using symbolism in his literary works. His use of symbolism in The Scarlet Letter is what makes it one of his most read novels in high schools and colleges all over the nation. The main symbols are the letter "A" and Pearl; however, there are many other symbols used throughout the novel. The letter "A" is the most important symbol used. "The town magistrates sentenced Hester to wear the scarlet "A" for the rest of her life so all would recognize her as an adulteress."(http://us.penguin group.com) One critic says, "It is this letter, or secret sin, that becomes the emphasis of the novel and assumes many different roles" (Martin 111). This symbol openly represents Hester's adultery. For Dimmesdale it symbolizes his sin and cowardice for not admitting to being Hester's partner in crime. "It might even be interpreted to symbolize America, a country born in the sin of revolution but which eventually prospered-just like Pearl"(http
It is also in the forest that they commit adultery. Pearl would harass her mother over the scarlet "A" which she wore. One must read the novel in order to completely understand Hawthorne's prolific use of symbolism. Hester is free to do as she pleases when she is there. "The prison is also a symbol of isolation and alienation, foreshadowing the life that Hester will lead even after she leaves its confines. Dimmesdale sees the same "A" in the sky as a reminder of his sin and guilt. Pearl is another major symbol in the novel. While Hester lives in the prison of alienation, Dimmesale lives in the prison of his unconfessed guilt, and Chillingworth is imprisoned by his vengeance" (www. There are many other symbols in The Scarlet Letter. Pearl cries for a red rose in the governor's garden. She is a symbol of the bond between Hester and Dimmesdale.
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