The Scarlet Letter contains many symbols throughout the story. The prison door best represents the strict and unrelenting Puritan society. Ironically, there is a rose bush that grows next to the prison which represents compassion and pardon. Christians believe in mercy even if the person being forgiven does not deserve it. Since the prison represents a place of immorality and darkness, the rose bush represents hope and love to the imprisoned.
The scaffold represents the Day of Judgment. It illustrates how one would show him/herself before god. Because of this, Dimmesdale has trouble being on the platform and acknowledge his immoralities. The first time he tries he confesses during the night as if he were trying to hide himself from god. Then when he does confess during the day, he dies symbolizing that with his confession and death he is at peace.
Lastly, colors are also used in the Scarlet Letter as symbols. The dark and dull colors of Hester’s clothes represents her bleak, isolated, and guilt-ridden life. However, Hester dresses Pearl with bright colors that symbolize her free spirit. The letter “A” is red because it relates to the devil and Hester’s sin was the work of the devil.
The explanation of how the colors of the scarlet letter are used as a symbol is very interesting. I haven't really thought about it like that.
ReplyDeleteOMG THIS IS AMAZING!!! I WISH I KNEW WHO WROTE THIS ANALYSIS OF THE SCARLET LETTER! =) DONT FORGET THAT COLORS ALSO HIDE THINGS AT NIGHT HEHE
ReplyDeleteVery interesting analysis!
ReplyDeleteVery original and I enjoyed reading it :]