Puritian Opression

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Throughout the story, Hawthorne uses imagery to create a beautiful and positive picture, but simultaneously shows how paper thin this illusion is. Hawthorne introduces the groom by saying “his right hand held a gilded staff.” It is radiant on the outside but plain and dull beneath the surface. When describing the bride, Hawthorne says “The elder spirits, if they knew that mirth was but the counterfeit of happiness, yet followed the false shadow willfully, because at least her garments glittered brightest.” This continues the idea of gilding the undesired to make it otherwise when seen in the light. Again, sparkles mask the unattractive core. The dancers at the wedding dance until sunset. However, this implies that they dance only as long as they are in the light and being seen. That which is not seen in the dark involves no such festiveness. Those wearing masks of smiling faces are also signs of false happiness. To cover a face of fear with a veneer of joy is to ...

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