Nov 18, 2008

The Scarlet Letter | Themes

In The Scarlet Letter, Hawthorne deals with two principal themes: the conflict between head and heart, and the nature of sin itself. Through the story of Hester and Dimmesdale, the novelist is able to highlight the contrast between the natural passions of young adults and the harsh rules of conduct established by societies such as the one in Puritan New England. The men and women of Boston are quick to brand Hester a sinner because she violates her marriage vows. They are not privy to the circumstances of her marriage, which is loveless and demoralizing; even if they were, however,...