The Scarlet Letter | Characters
At the center of Hawthorne's story is the figure of the adulteress Hester Prynne. A young woman sent alone to America by a husband much older than herself and not able to respond to her emotional needs, she is made the object of public scorn when she becomes pregnant, has a child, and refuses to name the father. Hawthorne presents her as a strong figure who is able to tolerate the prejudices of her fellow townspeople, turning her symbol of shame into a badge of honor. Unlike her secret lover, the minister Roger Dimmesdale, she is willing to admit to her actions, acknowledging that her...
[The entire page is 453 words long]
New in The Scarlet Letter Group 
- timbrady added a post:
Although it's impossible to be sure, I think they fear that somehow Hester's... - pmiranda2857 added a post:
The villagers want Hester Prynne to be punished for her crime of adultery, but... - luky261 created a topic:
Villagers' Fears and Desires in "The Scarlet Letter - pmiranda2857 added a post:
Hester Prynne embodies several indirect characterizations that reflect not only... - pmiranda2857 added a post:
The scarlet letter itself is a depiction of the difference between male and female...
Navigate
See Also:
- - For teachers, the The Scarlet Letter Lesson Plan.
- - Read the The Scarlet Letter text online.
- - The Scarlet Letter summary and study guide in the eNotes.
Tell a friend about The Scarlet Letter at eNotes.
- Add The Scarlet Letter to your favorites