Lawrence makes a biblical allusion by calling Hester “another Magdalene” (Lawrence). This statement is ironic because Mary Magdalene was known for her change as a sinner who would later become a follower of Jesus. Hester Prynne is known for the exact opposite reasons as Magdalene, as she was once a law abiding member of Puritan society, but later fell out of favor due to her adulterous behavior as a sinner. The remark by Lawrence “Abel Abel Abel Admirable!” (Lawrence) compares Hester to Abel, the biblical character who was killed by his brother Cain. By comparing Hester to Abel, Lawrence essentially blames Hester for the death of Dimmesdale. The underlying disapproval of Hester can be seen through the allusions made by
Lawrence makes a biblical allusion by calling Hester “another Magdalene” (Lawrence). This statement is ironic because Mary Magdalene was known for her change as a sinner who would later become a follower of Jesus. Hester Prynne is known for the exact opposite reasons as Magdalene, as she was once a law abiding member of Puritan society, but later fell out of favor due to her adulterous behavior as a sinner. The remark by Lawrence “Abel Abel Abel Admirable!” (Lawrence) compares Hester to Abel, the biblical character who was killed by his brother Cain. By comparing Hester to Abel, Lawrence essentially blames Hester for the death of Dimmesdale. The underlying disapproval of Hester can be seen through the allusions made by