Scarlet Letter Transcendentalism Essay

Hawthorne was influenced by both Puritan culture and the Romantic and Transcendentalism movements. Puritans believed that life should be lived with complete conformity to the teachings of the Bible, that life is lived only for the glory of God, and that moral purity is a constant priority. Puritans wanted to obey God’s will in order to ensure their future happiness in heaven. As a result, they did not hold earthly pleasures in high regard, such as celebrations or holidays. Romantics, however, put more of an emphasis on emotion and sensations. They believed in freedom of all sorts, such as freedom of speech and press, and were very liberal. Romantics had an appreciation for nature. The Romantic Movement brought about a revival of appreciation
Near the beginning of the Scarlet Letter, Hester was a passionate and proud woman. Her characteristics reveal themselves throughout her attire, attitude, and countenance. Hester openly expresses her love for freedom, which is encouraged by Romantics. However, as she grows older, she matures and her rough edges begin to smooth. Since she is permanently distanced from civilization by the Scarlet Letter, she becomes independent. Isolated from everyone, Hester becomes more introspective and thoughtful. However, she still expresses her dormant passion through her business as a seamstress, making elaborate and vibrant dresses. Her passion is revitalized by her meeting with Dimmesdale, and Hester has a moment of complete transparency, fully expressing
It could be argued that the relationship between Hester and Dimmesdale is doomed from the beginning because of their different beliefs and opinions. Dimmesdale simply can’t think like Hester because of an intrinsic difference and vice-versa. Hester will never be able to live as Dimmesdale does, because that’s just not how her mind works. What makes the story of the Scarlet Letter so tragic is that these two people in love can never be together, because of their own ideals and society’s