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The Scarlet Letter: Symbolism - Online Term Paper

The Scarlet Letter: Symbolism

The Scarlet Letter is a novel with much symbolism. Throughout the novel several characters represent other ideas. One of the most complex and misunderstood characters in the novel is Pearl, the daughter of Hester Prynne. Pearl, throughout the story, develops into a dynamic symbol � one that is always changing. Although Pearl changes, she always symbolizes evil. Pearl symbolizes evil in the story by representing God�s punishment of Hester�s sin, symbolizing the guilt and the scarlet letter that controls her behavior, and defying Puritan laws by being cheerful and associating with nature.
Pearl represents God�s punishment by her mocking and nagging of Hester. Throughout the novel she ...

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In time, Hester was subjected to so much ridicule from Pearl and others that she was forced into seclusion.
Pearl represents the sins of both Hester and Dimmesdale. Pearl is said to be the direct consequence of sin (Martin 108). Their sins include lying to the people about the affair that led to Pearl. Hester realizes what Pearl represents when she does not hold Pearl up in front of the �A.� She carries the child around because it is a direct reflection of her sin. Hester is, �wisely judging that one token of her shame would but poorly serve to hide another� (Hawthorne 48). Dimmesdale�s sin is not adultery but not having the courage to admit that he had adulterated. Therefore his is a �concealed sin.�
The scarlet letter amuses Pearl, and also controls her behavior. It is noted that, Pearl has been described in terms almost exclusively of uncontrolled, chaotic passion (MacLean 54). Throughout the novel Pearl is attracted to the �A.� Even when she is just a baby, �her ...

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PAPER DETAILS

Added: 8/4/2007 12:25:21 PM
Category: Book Reports
Type: Premium Paper
Words: 1126
Pages: 5

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