Chapter 1 and 2.

Hawthorne starts the book at a prison, which is usually a symbol of isolation and sets the dull mood of this story. He adds a rosebush growing from the prison’s door representing hope to all prisoners and redemption.  As we know, the Puritan’s way of living and beliefs are based on the bible, thus making their views towards Hester very harsh. The townspeople began to gossip and comment about the punishment Hester has received and what she has done. To them the punishment that was given to Hester wasn’t severe enough; adultery is a fatal offense and its punishment is death.

Hawthorne’s depiction of Hester conflicts with the values and settings of the society in which she lives because rather than walking out of the prison with shame she comes out proudly as the crowd watched her horrified.  She accepts the reaction of the crowd and doesn’t argue against it. She doesn’t seem affected by what is occurring and what her society thinks. (YOU GO HESTER!)

"One token of her shame would but poorly serve to hide another"

"But this had been a sin of passion, not of principle, nor even purpose"

 

Though I have not read the Scarlet Letter it seems like a very electrifying book to read. From the background information provided by the plot of the popular movie "Easy A" we see, the main problem in the story "adultery" taking place. For what I have read in numerous websites Hester goes to jail for committing adultery, which in my opinion is RIDICULOUS!... After being separated from your husband for two years, you can't help, but to move on and be with someone else. Adultery isn't a sin, it's a human basic instinct. At this time religion (Puritan) is in control of the society, hence the opposition to the "crime" she has committed. It is so umm what's the word... JUDGMENTAL... that people criticized her for a sin, when many of them have probably committed sins of the same level or worse. Just like it said in John 8:7 (bible) “Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her". This mentality did not only occur in the Puritan time, but it's also occurring today.  Honestly, I feel like I'm going to be very angry as I read this book because I HATE mistreatment.