The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne is a story that takes place among Puritan people, who brand a woman and she learns to cope with their hypocrisy. The narrative delves into Hester’s internal conflicts, her bond with her daughter Pearl, and her journey towards self-acceptance. However, a significant aspect of the book revolves around the Puritans themselves as Hawthorne criticizes their hypocrisy, particularly through the use of the Scarlet Letter.
Throughout the book, Hawthorne depicts the Puritans’ hypocrisy through multiple instances involving the Scarlet Letter, showcasing his intense disdain for them. Whether it is Hester’s letter, Dimmesdale’s letter, or Pearl’s letter, Hawthorne manages to establish connections between them. Surprisingly, it is not Chillingworth or even Hester who criticize the letter the most, but rather the townspeople. Despite living in a fully Puritan town, one would expect them to be somewhat forgiving. However, they display their hypocritical nature throughout various chapters in the book, starting as early as the second chapter.
The Puritans in the market place scene demonstrate an extreme disdain for Hester’s letter. One of them remarks, “as for the red letter which she hath stitched so curiously, I’ll bestow a rag of mine own rheumatic flannel, to make a fitter one!” However, these same Puritans eventually hire Hester for her sewing skills portrayed in the letter, despite believing that a flannel would be more suitable. Thus, the Puritans betray their initial dislike of the letter and also reveal their hypocrisy regarding its meaning.
The Scarlet Letter, known as a letter “A”, symbolizes adultery and is prominently featured throughout the book. The Puritans’ treatment of Hester reveals their view on this sin, starting from the beginning. In the first chapter, the townspeople eagerly wait for Hester to emerge from the imposing iron doors. Despite not knowing who or why someone is behind those doors, their hostility towards what lies within becomes apparent. Once they discover that Hester is responsible and wearing the Scarlet Letter, they relentlessly harass her, joined by everyone else, including the guard who also displays his hatred.
The Puritans undergo a change of heart, appearing to have no consistent opinions. By the thirteenth chapter, their perception of Hester shifts from considering her a sinner to regarding her as a sacred figure. This transformation is made possible by Hester’s numerous acts of charity towards both the wealthy and the poor. Consequently, the shape of the letter she wears alters into that of a cross. Astonishingly, at one point, even its meaning completely changes. It is puzzling how an entire town can label something as adultery and subsequently claim it symbolizes “able.” The Puritans evidently need to carefully contemplate before expressing themselves. Initially altering their perspective on the letter’s appearance and subsequently on its overall significance highlights their hypocrisy. Tragically, this is not where the townspeople’s double standards end.
Previously, the focus has been on Hester’s Scarlet Letter; however, as mentioned before, the evidence extends beyond her letter. Now, attention shifts to the letter “worn” by Dimmesdale.
