Symbolism of Settings in The Scarlet Letter
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Symbolism of Settings in The Scarlet Letter
The Scarlet Letter, a historical fiction masterpiece by Nathaniel Hawthorne, uses setting to powerfully connect fact and fiction. The diverse settings, such as the marketplace, the forest, the scaffold, and Hester's cottage, serve as symbols supporting the novel's themes.
The Marketplace: A Symbol of Puritan Society
The marketplace represents the austere Puritan society. As a main gathering place, it was always populated, and all laws were strictly enforced. Every action was observed and judged, reflecting the rigid nature of Puritan life.
The Forest: A Place of Autonomy and Truth
In contrast, the forest is the antithesis of the Puritan world. Here, individuals are autonomous, governed only by their own rules. For example, Hester removes her head covering and the scarlet letter, feeling liberated from societal constraints. The forest becomes a place of truth, where Hester reveals Chillingworth's true identity to Dimmesdale.
Hester's Cottage: A Transition Point
Hester's cottage, located on the fringes of town and at the edge of the forest, acts as a transition between the two worlds. It is her place of exile, a consequence of her adultery, linking it to the authoritarian town.
The Scaffold: A Stage for Dramatic Events
The scaffold is a crucial setting, highlighting the most dramatic and foreshadowing events of the novel. The main characters and the central symbol, the scarlet letter, are present in these scenes. For instance, the novel begins with Hester standing on the scaffold, publicly humiliated for her crime, bearing the scarlet "A" for adultery.
Conclusion
Through these settings, the novel reflects the pervasive “shadow of Puritanism” in Hawthorne's fiction and his preference for past times.