Theme of Sin
I have a paper due tomorrow that I need to figure out the effects of sin on characters in The Scarlet Letter. I know the main sin is adultery, but I don't know the others. I need to be able to associate the sin and its effect to one of the main characters. Any help would be appreciated!
Hello, ladywubboux, welcome to the forum.
Out of all of the characters in The Scarlet Letter, not all of them committed what a strict Puritanical society would call "sin."
Hester Prynne, yes, committed "adultery;" the effect of the act on her, I think, mostly contributed to her secrecy, determination, self-reliance, and independency.
Pearl never necessary committed "sin," to its full definition, but seemed born out of "sin;" and, for this reason, seems cast away from her peers, and, in result, appears as a rather rebellious and mysterious child.
Roger Chillingworth, in my opinion, seems the most "sinful" and detestable out of the whole novel. He lies, committing deceit, declaring himself as a medical doctor; otherwise, he abandoned his wife (against marital vows), and appears greedy for power and money. Easily, this merely makes a monster out of Chillingworth.
Reverend Arthur Dimmesdale, a very enthusiastic and admirable preacher, commits sexual intercourse outside of marriage (with a married woman), renouncing any celibacy, which, I have no doubt, Puritans considered "sinful." Knowing his own guilt, this takes a toll on his physical health, but, eventually, turns him into a more, as with Hester, self-reliant man.
Good luck, and I hope I have helped!
Thank you so much, that helps a lot!
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