Patriarchy In Nathaniel Hawthorne's The Scarlet Letter

Throughout history, women have repeatedly challenged patriarchal societies for their belittling actions. In a patriarchal society, women struggle to reach equality because the male leaders overrule and demean women. For example, in Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel, The Scarlet Letter, Hester Prynne is a woman who is looked down upon for committing adultery. With this sin comes years of difficulties in Hester’s daily life as she tries to gain control of her own life and family. Despite all the negative attributes associated with her, Hester Prynne is a winner because she is an independent, powerful woman who challenges a cruel, patriarchal society by making it matriarchal.

Hester challenges the harsh, unforgiving patriarchy by being affectionate and loving. Hester's community is judged on a daily basis by the patriarchy, and they can go to Hester when they need help or advice. Even though everyone shames Hester, “she stands for another idea of community – a more nurturing, flexible, less judgmental community” (Baym 23). In opposition to the Puritan patriarchal society, Hester openly helps her community by being a

Hester’s embroidery business proves to be a success because all types of people buy clothes from her. Hester is “without a friend on earth who dared show himself, she, however, incurred no risk of want” (Hawthorne 74). Hester is successful and self-sufficient, so she does not need anyone’s help, especially not the patriarchal authorities. Without the patriarchy’s power ruling over her, Hester lives a better life than she would have if she were to be under their control. Even though the patriarchy tries to control Hester’s life, Hester shows her power and independence from the patriarchy by victoriously continuing her life with her embroidery business. She proves that women can overpower the patriarchy and create a loving and peaceful change towards a more equal