Symbolism in Scarlet Letter by Amira Darrow

Scarlet Letter

adarrow — 2015-10-31 00:20:23 UTC

The scarlet letter is a very significant symbol. It is the title of the book, after all. At the beginning of the novel, the A stood for adultery, because Hester Prynne committed adultery. Now, towards the middle of the novel, it's starting to stand for able. Hester is doing just fine caring for herself and Pearl by sewing for charity.

Quote: "On the breast of her gown, in fine red cloth, surrounded with an elaborate embroidery and fantastic flourishes of gold thread, appeared the letter A." (Hawthorne 9)

Scaffold

adarrow — 2015-10-31 00:52:50 UTC

The scaffold is another important symbol. The scaffold represents public shaming. Hester has to stand on it when she is released from prison. Also, in the night time , Dimmesdale stands up there because the only time he can muster up the courage is at night. It is significant because it represents guilt for Dimmesdale and public shaming for Hester.

Quote: "With almost a serene deportment, therefore, Hester Prynne passed through this portion of her ordeal, and came to a sort of scaffold, at the western extremity of the market-place." (Hawthorne 11)

Night and Day

adarrow — 2015-10-31 01:30:49 UTC

Night and day were also symbols in the book. Nighttime is when DImmesdale internally confesses and he is honest with himself. During the day, is the time for public shaming and exposure of sin. This is significant to the story because in the dark it is easy to hide, but in the day everyone is capable of seeing your sin publicly.

Quote: "But the daylight of this world shall not see our meeting." (Hawthorne 97)

The Forest

adarrow — 2015-10-31 01:48:50 UTC

The forest is significant because it is where the "Black Man" lives. He is associated with evil and wickedness. It is important because that is where Hester Prynne lives. She goes there to be away from all the people.

Quote: "...also the passes of the dark, inscrutable forest..." (Hawthorne 32)

Dimmesdale

adarrow — 2015-10-31 02:11:50 UTC

DImmesdale holding his hand over his heart is symbolism for the internal pain and guilt he feels for making Hester face this alone and not coming to terms with his sin. It is significant to the story because his doctor is Hester's husband, but he is unaware of that.

Quote: "...griping hand at his breast as if afflicted with an importunate throb of pain." (Hawthorne 9)

Pearl

adarrow — 2015-10-31 02:34:29 UTC

Pearl is significant because Hester Prynne paid a price for her. She committed a sin and was publicly shamed. She is significant because she helps change the meaning of the A on Hester's chest.