Distortion in the Scarlet Letter

The meaning of the Scarlet Letter is also something that gets distorted throughout the book. In the beginning of the book the “A” stands for adultery which is not something to be proud of. People view this lady with the “A” as being evil and just not a good Puritan person. When Hester is going to go up the scaffolding it says that “ her first impulse to clasp the infant closely to her bosom; not so much by an impulse of motherly affection, as that she might thereby conceal a certain token…however, she wisely judging that one token of her shame would but poorly serve to hide another, she took the baby on her arm, and with a burning blush, and yet a haughty smile, and glance that would not be abashed.”(P.60) This line shows that Hester herself was ashamed for what she had done. Wilson and Governor Bellingham go as far as they want to take Pearl away from Hester. However, seven years later Hester Prynne was viewed as being very different. The “A” itself had taken on an entirely new meaning. “ Hester Prynne did not now occupy precisely the same position in which we beheld her during the earlier periods of her ignominy.”(P.155) This line shows that the view of Hester had changed, and maybe the beliefs of the society that she lived in had changed a little. “The letter was a symbol of her calling. Such helpfulness was found in her—so much power to do and power to sympathize—that many people refused to interpret the scarlet “A” by its original signification. They Said that it meant “Able”; so strong was Hester Prynne, with a woman’s strength.”(P.156) This passage shows that Hester was viewed completely different she was now viewed as almost a living saint to the people she helped. The “A” now became a badge of honor for her to wear and she inspired others to help others. This is evident in chapter 24 when Hester voluntarily wears the letter when she returns from England. This shows that Hester is no longer ashamed of her letter and it has become a big part of her life. Dimmesdale is as guilty as Hester, however he does not have to wear the “A” like she does, but it still effects him because he is alway

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