Nathaniel Hawthorne in Young Goodman Brown combines episodes from reality and fantasy. The story depicts reality of sin and the fear of the human hell. The greatest meaning of the story is portrayed in the conflict between good and evil.
Goodman Brown, who loves his wife very much, decides to embark on a journey to meet someone late at night. His wife tries to persuade him to change his intention. She is perceived as a loving wife concerned about her husband. Although both of them share a strong belief in spiritual things, Brown leaves his affectionate and attractive Faith. The action of leaving his wife symbolizes loss of faith and belief.
Several other symbols are used in the story. The author picks Young Goodman Brown name for the main character to illustrate his naivety and self-righteousness. In addition, Hawthorne chooses pink ribbons to symbolize Faith's passion and innocence. Her name is also used as a symbol. When Goodman departs for a journey, he leaves without his new wife Faith, without faith and religion.
The description of Salem village during Puritan times begins when Goodman Brown enters unfamiliar and dark forest. The author takes us through the ominous, evil and impassible places, "dreary road, darkened by all the gloomiest trees of the forest, which barely stood aside to let the narrow path creep through, and closed immediately behind". Such Puritan neighborhoods described with wilderness, surrounding Salem, symbolize Goodman Brown's mistrust. Also, it represents deception and obscurity of Goodman's heart; his mind seems filled with malevolent and dreary thoughts. The character does not trust the hidden figures and shadows in the forest. Moreover, he cannot trust his own desires. .
Goodman's faith in righteousness kept him back a while. As Brown moves on, he begins to realize what he had left behind. He confronts with devil that tempts him deeper and deeper into the forest.
