The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne free essay sample

A study of the use of nature in the novel, The Scarlet Letter. The paper studies the theme of nature in the novel, focusing on it as a means to critique the effects of the Puritan beliefs and views on its people. The plot of the novel is reviewed in depth within this context. Nature, in the book The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne, is used as a means to critique the effects of the Puritan beliefs and views on its people. The author portrays the Puritans are a group of god fearing people whose theocracy forces their followers to follow strict commandments. The punishments for broken rules in the story are very severe by todays standards, and try to make examples of the sinners. The author also uses the nature of the earth to portray the multifaceted aspects of human nature. The main character, Hester Prynne, is faced with problems throughout her adult life. We will write a custom essay sample on The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page She bears an illegitimate daughter, Pearl, and is condemned by the Puritans. They force her to bear the mark of the scarlet letter as a punishment. She is not in touch with her true natural side and, therefore, cannot deal with her strife. Her daughter, on the other hand, is a child of nature, innocent and pure, and is not as affected by society. Throughout the book Pearl is described in terms of nature. She is wild and untamed, unlike her mother who must work very hard to be accepted in society. It is only when Hester is in a natural environment that she is able to confront and solve the problems caused by the people around her.