The Scarlet Letter: Symbolism Of The Scarlet Letter

If one would like to read a book with a considerable amount of symbolism, The Scarlet Letter provides more than ample examples. The one that is most evident, perplexing, and misunderstood in the book is Pearl, the daughter of Hester Prynne. Throughout the story Pearl manifests and evolves into a prominent symbol of the scarlet letter, which Hester, at all times, has to where upon her bosom.
In Nathaniel Hawthorne’s, The Scarlet Letter, Hester receives an “A” for committing the criminal act of adultery. This was the Puritanical method of punishment. Public humiliation, leads to embarrassment as well as the sinner repenting for the transgressions she or he allocated. When Hester went ...

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Her exuberant disposition caused the townspeople to believe she was a “mysterious little elf”. One could tell at times she was the exact opposite of the Puritanical ways. Pearl’s taunting and malicious character sometimes caused Hester to make unwise remarks such as, “Thou art not my child! Thou art no Pearl of mine!” I have also head some say the scarlet letter “A” stood for anti-puritan. This may seem far fetched, but not to far away from the truth. Obviously Pearls’ wild soul could never be confined by the rules of the conservative Puritan Society.
As symbolic as that may be, Pearl’s name also held deep meaning. As a Pearl grows in a clam, it is at first an annoyance and rather bothersome. After time though, it grows into a lovely piece of jewelry that is cherished and held dear to by someone. In this case, Pearl being born was an annoyance of sorts, and very bothersome. Subsequently, as time grew on she was very treasured and loved.

Another way Pearl was symbolized ...

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Added: 9/2/2006 12:17:59 PM
Category: Book Reports
Type: Premium Paper
Words: 1103
Pages: 5

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