In Nathaniel Hawthorne's novel The Scarlet Letter, many characters suffer from the effects of isolation:
- Hester: Hester's isolation from society, which is both intrinsically and externally inflicted upon her, results in significant character growth. Hester becomes stronger mentally and emotionally, and in the end, becomes a pillar of moral character within the town.
- Dimmesdale: Dimmesdale's isolation is entirely self-inflicted, the source of which is his fathomless guilt over fathering Pearl. The effects isolation have on him are mostly physical: draining him of health, energy, and leaving a "brand" on his chest that matches Hester's scarlet letter.
- Chillingworth: Chillingworth's isolation is in part accidental; he is a newer member to the community in question. However, it is reinforced by his commitment to revenge, which leads him to interact with a limited number of people. As the result of his isolation, Chillingworth sheds his humanity and becomes incredibly evil.
- Pearl: Pearl is shunned by her community, and as a result, she develops without many of the prejudices or beliefs of her peers. This is further isolating, as many townsfolk associate her independence and lack of reservation with the devil.
No comments:
Post a Comment