Pearl's Role In Scarlet Letter

Sin creates a feeling of shame and anguish that is not incited by the sin itself, but from the scorn of others, and thus, it imbues secrecy within the host. In Nathaniel Hawthorne’s The Scarlet Letter, Pearl is endowed with the proclivity to unveil the truth that shrouds the sinners of the Puritan society, especially those of Hester Prynne and Arthur Dimmesdale. Pearl, a product of two sinners’ passion, is cast aside from the harsh Puritan society, which envelops her in the utmost freedom that is neither confined by Puritan laws nor thinking. In truth, Pearl is able to induce philosophical insight into human nature through her connection and fascination with the scarlet letter. Banished from society, Pearl’s perception is influenced by the natural order of life which strengthens her union with nature as a result of the freedom. And so, the child naturally manifests a growing desire to disclose the truth, for the truth is all she has ever perceived. Because Pearl has acquired intellectual freedom, Pearl is able to understand the complexity of human frailty through the scarlet letter, the connection with nature, and the search for truth to ultimately comprehend the grandeur of human nature.
To many, Pearl embodies “the
As such, Pearl’s embodiment of the scarlet letter serves as a relentless reminder to Hester and Dimmesdale of their deeds, and in return, Pearl acquires a greater understanding of the inner soul. With the protection of nature, Pearl is able to think for herself rather than follow the teachings of the Puritans. And most importantly, the child’s penchant for unveiling the truth has given sinners, such as Dimmesdale and Hester, redemption and solace. For a character so honest and natural, Pearl serves as a guide and soothsayer for the Puritans who are shrouded in an idealistic