The Scarlet Letter: Theme of Sin and Its Redemption

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issues covered in the novel. Throughout the course of the novel, the author elaborates on three types of sinners in the book, who have completely different faults, and shows they are treated in the Puritan community. Hester is shamed by the townsfolk for her adultery no matter what she tries to do to regain their favor. She is a sinner according to the moral principles of puritans; thus, people do not consider her nature, her relations with others or her emotions and thoughts. They see only the sin that she has committed, which is beyond the morality of the community.

As the plot develops, we learn that it is the minister Dimmesdale who had an affair with Hester Prynne. Thus, he is also a sinner and his sin is even heavier than Hester’s, as he is a priest. However, for most of the story, the townsfolk remain ignorant about his sin and does not shame him. Despite this, Dimmesdale suffers much and feels pangs of guilt constantly. On the one hand, he is tormented by the fact ...

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