Symbolism in "The Scarlet Letter", whoa just gave one away! A symbol is defined as something that stands for or represents something else, especially an idea, quality, or condition. Symbols, also, can be objects, characters, figures, or colors used to represent, in most cases, ideas or concepts, which in novels, usually contribute to the main theme in the book. ... While symbols are created, those symbols must be given meaning within their context and, because the context differs, these symbols can vary over time, as seen in this novel. ... The villager's say now that " ...

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• Approx Pages: 8
• Grade Level: High School

Symbolism in the Scarlet Letter The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne contains abundant symbolism, which is used to unify the novel and add deeper meaning. ... Although the scarlet "A" keeps her in the dark, she also is a symbol of it. ... (Fossum 46-47) In addition to the larger symbols, there are also many minor symbols which are very important. ... The prison itself is a symbol of alienation, foreshadowing the life of Hester after her release. ... (Novelguide) Nathaniel Hawthorne uses symbols very well in his novel The Scarlet Letter. ...

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• Grade Level: High School

The symbolism of the scarlet letter is expanded in Chapter Five, Hester at Her Needle. ... They now saw it as a "symbol of her calling. ... She did not attempt to conceal the symbol that she wore, for she knew there was nothing to hide. ... This face of the A is a model of "acceptance," a symbol of Hester's respect for herself, and for her life. ... To Hawthorne, the A is a symbol used to develop Hester's character. ...

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• Grade Level: High School

However, at the same time, Hawthorne relied heavily on the culture as the basis for all the character's actions, incorporating a dismal tone, supernatural occurrences, and symbolism. ... Symbolism, being the key stylistic device of the novel, is most important and revealed throughout the novel. The obvious symbol is the letter A on Hester's chest. ... The symbolism of the forest outlines Hawthorne's interest in dichotomy, the belief that everything in the world has two sides; where one is unable to exist without the presence of the other. ...

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• Grade Level: High School

This allegorical novel depends heavily on symbol and character. ... The other story has symbols that speak on morals, religious doctrine, and public mindset. Furthermore the novel can be defined as a romantic novel by analyzing the characters Hester, Pearl, and Dimmesdale for their overall purpose to the story and the symbolism. ... Pearl is a symbol of naturalism. ... Thus the novel conveys a story of symbols and hidden double meanings. ...

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• Grade Level: High School

The Scarlet Letter is overflowing with symbolism. Understanding Hawthorne's symbols by themselves is key to understanding The Scarlet Letter as a novel. The Scarlet Letter "A" is the central symbol of the novel. ... The scaffold is another important symbol in the novel. ... Pearl is probably the most symbolic of all the symbols used in the novel. ...

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• Grade Level: High School

The Scarlet Letter is chock full of symbolism. ... For this harsh sin, she must wear a symbol of shame for the rest of her life. ... It is highly ironic that Hester's largest signs, the letter A and Pearl herself are the symbols of her sin, but Pearl is also the symbol of her happiness. ...

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In the novel The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne, the letter A is given to the characters Hester and Dimmesdale. According to the law of the Puritan society and the strict interpretation of the Bible, adultery is one of the deadliest sins that led to the deadliest punishment - execution or cor...

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