Hawthorne excels in the use of allegory and symbolism, making his works rich for discussions on moral and social issues. Through detailed descriptions of physical settings, subtle hints about the characters, and his meticulous use of point of view, Hawthorne turns a story about a man's encounter with Satan-worshippers into a narrative that reflects everyone's struggle to understand the deepest thoughts of those around them, including those closest to them. The wisdom of such an endeavor and its consequences are sure to ignite spirited debates among readers, who often hold divergent views on the merits of delving deeply into others' motivations.

1. Puritan doctrine posited that human nature is fundamentally evil, but salvation is attainable through God's grace. Those destined for salvation would recognize God's favor and their lives would manifest this grace. How is this doctrine explored in "Young Goodman Brown?" What does Hawthorne suggest about the impact of this doctrine on individuals?

2. As Goodman Brown is drawn into the circle of devil-worshipers, the dark figure leading the ceremony delivers a brief sermon. Why does Hawthorne include this speech in the story?

3. When Goodman Brown encounters his shadowy guide in the forest, he is initially hesitant to continue his journey. The man persuades him to proceed by saying, "Let us walk on nevertheless, reasoning as we go." What is the significance of the devil using "reason" in his conversation with Brown? How does the concept of reason become distorted?

4. Hawthorne carefully manages the point of view in this story. How is his intentional choice to present events from Brown's perspective crucial to the readers' understanding of the story's central theme?

5. Similar to Goodman Brown, the protagonist in Hawthorne's story "Wakefield" also abandons his family without explanation. In what ways is this character akin to Goodman Brown? What is Hawthorne attempting to convey about human nature through the actions of these two characters?