Paradoxes In The Scarlet Letter

Reading a novel is one thing, but analyzing it is a whole different process. “The Scarlet Letter”: The Power of Ambiguity by Fred H. Marcus is a powerful article that assists the reader identify three strong points of the novel. Marcus’ article proves that paradoxes, character treatment, and symbolism play a vital role in analyzing the novel, The Scarlet Letter’s, worth. Marcus uses many examples and direct information from the novel to back up his thinking as well.

Though it’s not the biggest strong point, paradoxes is still a huge strong point to discuss within the novel, The Scarlet Letter. Marcus quotes the novel, “The opening chapter stresses an immediate paradox. ‘The founders of a new colony, whatever utopia…’ have found it essential

As Marcus states, “Nor has Hawthorne confined his symbols… Since Hawthorne’s symbols frequently appear in contrast, it is interesting to note that.” (452) Marcus tells the truth here, that though the scarlet letter is used many times to symbolize Hester and her adultery, the symbolism isn’t confined to just the scarlet letter. Another huge symbol in the novel would have to be the dark leaves in the cemetery, which would symbolize the dead who still had clung on to their sins, probably with guilt just like Dimmesdale himself did. As Marcus states in his article about the novel, “While Hester’s scarlet letter serves as a recurring symbol… “Why does the minister keep his hand over his heart?”” (452-453) In the beginning of the story, the reader can make a connection with the scarlet letter located on Hester’s bosom, and the minister’s hand over his heart. Looking at this section again a second time, back in the novel where Hester is being trialed on the scaffold, it is quite an obvious hint that the minister is the lovely father of precious Pearl. However, not only is symbolism a major strong point in the novel, but so is character