Symbols Found in Nathaniel Hawthorne's The Scarlett Letter

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Several symbols that are found within Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel, The Scarlet Letter, represent a greater idea found outside of the story itself. The uses of symbols throughout the novel portray a truthful version of reality, one that people can relate to and find in their daily lives. He uses symbols found within nature to develop the setting, characters, and mood. The use of light and color play a significant role in depicting the symbolism of the scenery and background of the novel. The forest is a predominant setting that is also symbolic. The forest portrays the character’s psychological state of mind as well as it being a place where one can escape the grim realities of life.
The use of light and darkness within the novel becomes a symbol and sets the mood for the story. The light that is described is used to draw out certain features of characters, highlighting their intentions and motives, as well as their thoughts. Light is also used to describe the appearance of a character; however, it symbolizes the inner spirit of a character and reflects personal warmth. Light is also seen as symbol of exposure throughout the novel. For instance, in chapter two Hester emerges from the dark, melancholy prison and is exposed to the public in the light of day for her sin. She is described as having “dark hair, so glossy that it threw off the sunshine with a gleam.” Hester comes out of the prison and is placed in front of everyone to see thus sunlight becomes a symbol of exposure. This is something that one may find in his or her daily life. Darkness, as well as, nighttime is the only place where Hester and her child can embrace Dimmesdale. Here they can associate with one another without the Puritan community knowing. In “The Ministe...

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...s linked to this other world than she is in the village with her mom. When Hester calls upon Pearl to return she is hesitant because the forest serves as a symbol of division between her world and her moms.
The Scarlet Letter is considered a great masterpiece due to the hidden meaning behind symbols. The Scarlet Letter, as a whole, contains two prominent symbols the forest and the use of light and color. The symbols literal meaning as well as the effect bring meaning to life and contribute to the human experience. For example, the sunlight represents the exposure that Hester must endure in front of the public; however, it symbolizes acceptance of one’s own guilt that one must face. The color that is used to describe things provides a deeper understanding of the object as well. Without such symbols found throughout the context the novel would not be what it is today.

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