The Scarlet Letter | Analyze the character of Hester Prynne

The Scarlet Letter | Analyze the character of Hester Prynne

Q. Analyze the character of Hester Prynne in the novel, "The Scarlet Letter"

Answer: The main character of Nathanial Hawthorne's novel "The Scarlet Letter" is Hester Prynne. This novel is based on the background of the 17th century Puritan society. Hester is a woman who challenged the morality of the society and still gained respect with her self -confidence.

Daring and self -sufficient woman

Hester formed extramarital affairs. She does not hide her crime. The society gave her a harsh punishment. She was ordered to wear 'A' letters on her chest. Still she does not break. She accepts her sin with courage.

An ideal mother

Hester’s daughter, Pearl becomes her strength. She raises her alone. The society calls Pearl a 'child of the devil'. But Hester raises her with love and care. She never runs away from her responsibility.

Tolerant and compassionate nature

Hester tolerates the disdain of society quietly. She does not take revenge on anyone. She serves people. The clothes of the needy in her (Hester Prynne) society are stitched. She takes care of the sick. The society gradually recognizes her service spirit.

Symbol of self -confidence and women empowerment

Hester's character is a symbol of female power. She is accused of sin, but she does not lose her dignity. She becomes self -sufficient. Her work becomes her identity. She proves to the society that a woman is not just a definition of a sin.

Questions on social custom policy

Hester questions the morality of society. She knows that she has made a mistake. But she believes that every human makes a mistake. The society is hypocritical. Dimsdale, despite being a pastor, hides his sin. But he does not get punishment. But, Hester is accepted and excluded from society.

Symbol of change

Initially the letter 'A' was a symbol of insult. But over time people start to understand it as "altar" (competent) and "angel" (good angel). This change is the result of Hester's hard work, service and self -confidence.

Thoughtful and contemplative personality

Hester lives alone. She lives a different life from society. She thinks deeply. She contemplates the role of religion, morality, men and women. She wants society to give equal rights to women in future.

Got society's honor at the end the novel

The society which considered her to be a cursed woman earlier gives her respect at the end. She becomes an advisor to the people. She again wears 'A' but now that symbol is not of shame, but of respect and service.

Therefore, the character of Hester Prynne represents an ideal woman. She not only accepts sin, but also gives herself a new identity. She is tolerant, self -sufficient and kind. She also becomes an example of humanity even in the harshness of society.

Hester's life teaches that making mistakes is not a sin, but learning and improving oneself is the greatest religion. For this reason, Hester's character is the most powerful and inspirational part of the novel, “The Scarlet Letter".

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What Do You Think of Hester Prynne's Character?

Hester Prynne is often considered a symbol of her strength and tolerance, facing social condemnation. But according to you, what do you mean by her actions and the results she paid? Was her decisions in your perspective Empowering, or was it a sad story? Must share your thoughts in comments below!