Introduction

Chapter - 1

1. Introduction:

In the current thesis “Symbolism in Nathaniel Hawthorne “The Scarlet Letter” an attempt has been made to shed light on symbols, to decode these symbols and identify the various interpretations they stand for. The proposed work critically evaluates the symbolic significance of different objects and characters as portrayed by Nathaniel Hawthorne. The novel revolves around one major symbol: the scarlet letter A. Besides, some other objects that are described in the novel have their symbolic meanings. Moreover, the names of the four major characters; Hester Prynne, Arthur Dimmesdale, Roger Chillingworth and Pearl also have their symbolic meanings. Published in 1850 the present novel is considered the magnum opus of Nathaniel Hawthorne. In the present thesis an attempt has been made to study the time place and mood and the setting to add symbolic meaning to the objects used by the author. The thesis also focuses light on the place of the occurrence of this high voltage drama. The Puritan colony and its strict norms have been touched upon while depicting the symbolic significance of objects and characters.

The thesis clearly examines the ever changing meaning of the scarlet letter A. The town magistrate sentenced Hester to wear the scarlet letter “A” for the rest of her life so all would recognize her as an adulteress. Over time, however, newcomers did not know the history of Hester’s badge and asked its significance. Some townspeople remembered its origin, but others forgot, or transformed its meaning to “able” for the charitable work executed by Hester. Along with the study of symbols in “The Scarlet Letter”, a brief discussion on use of symbolism in American literature has also been written to have a clear cut idea about symbolism. Instances and examples from the works of Herman Melville, Mark Twain, F. Scott Fitzgerald are also given. Origin and development of “Symbolism” as a movement has also been discussed elaborately. The two theories of “Symbolism” , Langer’s theory and Whitehead’s theory have also been discussed in the present thesis.

1.1. Objectives of the study:

The cardinal objective of this thesis is to study minutely the symbolic significance of different elements as portrayed by Nathaniel Hawthorne.

• The proposed work critically evaluates the setting of the novel and its symbolic significance. The puritan setting in which the story takes place is a matter to be studied deeply. The thesis attempts to study the fading color of strict Puritan rules and regulations.
• To examine the ever changing meaning of the scarlet letter “A” which stands for adultery at first, then symbolizes alienation and then became a symbol of able, admirable.
• Tostudy the symbolic meaning of different objects like Prison, Rosebush, Meteor, Scaffold, Forest, Sun shine, Plants and Weeds. Prison symbolizes rules regulation, the rosebush symbolizes humbleness and beauty, the forest symbolizes freedom and so on.
• The objective of the study is to examine the symbolic meaning of different characters like Arthur Dimmesdale, Roger Chillingworth, Hester Prynne, the illegitimate daughter Pearl.
• The study aims at examining the effect of sin over human mind and its consequences. A sinner never gets peace and this is proved from the character of Arthur Dimmesdale. The thesis studies deeply the condition of Dimmesdale
  2. Review of Literature:

2. Review of Literature: