What Does Sunshine Symbolize In The Scarlet Letter
Symbolism is the use of concrete symbols to display a deeper more detailed meaning. In "The Scarlet Letter", Nathaniel Hawthorne employs many symbols that demonstrate a deeper sense. The most obvious symbol is the scarlet "A" that Hester is required to wear as punishment for the adultery she was accused of. The use of sunshine to display goodness and purity illustrates a strong symbol throughout the novel. Pearl, the daughter of Hester and Dimmesdale, is the strongest and most mystifying symbol in the novel. In "The Scarlet Letter" Hawthorne uses these symbols to give the reader an observation and a view on the way that the Puritan society is affected by sin.
The title of the novel, "The Scarlet Letter", is symbolism along with the many symbols …show more content…
Sunshine is used to symbolize goodness and purity. An example of this is when Hester takes Pearl in the forest. The sunshine shines on Pearl but disappears when Hester approaches. Hester cannot get near the sunlight because of her sin, but Pearl, who is an innocent child, can touch the light. This causes Hester to feel alienated from Pearl. Hester's sin was solely her fault and has caused Pearl to live a life harder than the average child. The sun shining on Pearl symbolizes her helpless innocence even though she seems to be a devil child. Another example of this symbolism in the forest is when Hester removes her scarlet letter that she was condemned to wear. As soon as the letter is detached from her chest sunlight begins to flood through the forest. This indicates that once Hester's sin is removed she is pure of heart. Hester's sin of adultery is hiding the kindhearted and capable woman that she really is. When Dimmesdale stands on the scaffold with Hester and Pearl he does so at night. He feels incomplete because he knows that to relieve himself of his hidden sin he must do so in daylight for all to see. Sunlight is used as a way out of Dimmesdale's concealed sin. Although he will be shamed and dishonored by the townspeople he will not have a secret burden. Only then will he be able to die in
The title of the novel, "The Scarlet Letter", is symbolism along with the many symbols …show more content…
Sunshine is used to symbolize goodness and purity. An example of this is when Hester takes Pearl in the forest. The sunshine shines on Pearl but disappears when Hester approaches. Hester cannot get near the sunlight because of her sin, but Pearl, who is an innocent child, can touch the light. This causes Hester to feel alienated from Pearl. Hester's sin was solely her fault and has caused Pearl to live a life harder than the average child. The sun shining on Pearl symbolizes her helpless innocence even though she seems to be a devil child. Another example of this symbolism in the forest is when Hester removes her scarlet letter that she was condemned to wear. As soon as the letter is detached from her chest sunlight begins to flood through the forest. This indicates that once Hester's sin is removed she is pure of heart. Hester's sin of adultery is hiding the kindhearted and capable woman that she really is. When Dimmesdale stands on the scaffold with Hester and Pearl he does so at night. He feels incomplete because he knows that to relieve himself of his hidden sin he must do so in daylight for all to see. Sunlight is used as a way out of Dimmesdale's concealed sin. Although he will be shamed and dishonored by the townspeople he will not have a secret burden. Only then will he be able to die in