Themes
Identity and Society - Throughout the novel, some of the characters tend to have more than one identity; one that is truly their own and one that is thrust upon them by society. Hester Prynne, for example, is given the scarlet letter and is condemned to shame as an adulterer and though she did commit adultery she does not let it define her. In fact, she is compassionate and helps the less fortunate.
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Sin - Sin is a major theme in the story. Throughout the novel, it is clear that sin generates more sin. Hester, who was wronged by her husband, commits adultry. Also, the story reveals that with sin comes knowledge which is seen in primarily Hester and Author Dimmesdale. Hester, who has been alienated by society is able to learn from the consequences of her sin and become a more compassonate person by helping the less fortunate. Dimmesdale, who hides his sin and guilt, is able to create and preach passionately and gain people to his congregation because he understands sin so well.
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Truth can set you free - The thought that revealing your sin and guilt can set you free is seen through the characters of Hester and Reverend Dimmesdale. Hester, who wears her sin on her breast, reveals her guilt to everyone she meets, and though it is with her through out her whole life, she can learn from her sin. On the other hand, Reverend Dimmisdale hides his guilt from everyone, which allows his guilt to slowly eat away at him which later on results in his heart condition. Therefore, as the Reverend says, "But methinks, it must needs be better for the sufferer to be free to show his pain, as this poor woman Hester is, than to cover it all up in his heart" (pg.127)
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