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Questions and Answers
What does the meteor symbolize for Dimmesdale?
What does the meteor symbolize for Dimmesdale?
What does the rose by the prison door symbolize?
What does the rose by the prison door symbolize?
Hester
What does the scarlet letter 'A' come to symbolize for Hester?
What does the scarlet letter 'A' come to symbolize for Hester?
Able
What does Dimmesdale's scarlet letter symbolize?
What does Dimmesdale's scarlet letter symbolize?
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How is Pearl different from the other children?
How is Pearl different from the other children?
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What does the prison door symbolize?
What does the prison door symbolize?
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What does Chillingsworth's name indicate about his character?
What does Chillingsworth's name indicate about his character?
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What does Pearl's name reference?
What does Pearl's name reference?
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What does Dimmesdale's name signify?
What does Dimmesdale's name signify?
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What is symbolized by Hester's name?
What is symbolized by Hester's name?
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Study Notes
Symbols in "The Scarlet Letter"
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The meteor symbolizes Dimmesdale's internal conflict and guilt. He interprets it as a sign to wear a scarlet letter, while the Puritan community sees it as a celestial acknowledgment of the governor's death.
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The rose by the prison door represents Hester's resilience. Its vibrant bloom amidst a bleak environment parallels Hester's ability to thrive despite her societal condemnation.
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The scarlet letter "A" evolves throughout the narrative. Initially a mark of shame, it transforms into a symbol of Hester's strength and community acceptance, allowing her to redefine its meaning as "able."
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Dimmesdale's concealed scarlet letter physically torments him. The secretive nature of his sin prevents him from achieving peace, highlighting the destructive power of hidden guilt.
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Pearl serves as a representation of the consequences of open sin. Her uniqueness compared to Puritan children, marked by unconventional behavior and attire, underscores her mother's transgression.
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The prison door symbolizes the rigid and oppressive nature of the Puritan society. Its forbidding appearance reflects the community's strict moral codes and lack of compassion.
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Chillingsworth's name captures his chilling demeanor. It signifies his malevolence and the unfulfilling nature of his character, reinforcing his role as an antagonist.
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Pearl's name alludes to the biblical concept of a "pearl of great price," symbolizing the sacrifices Hester made as a result of her adultery and the value she places on her daughter.
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Dimmesdale's name reflects his character's spiritual shortcomings. Although he is a minister, his light is faint, contrasting with his congregation's misguided perception of him as a beacon of faith.
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Hester's name, derived from "Esther," emphasizes her isolation in a hostile environment, paralleling biblical themes of strength and survival in adversity.
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Description
Explore the significant symbols in Nathaniel Hawthorne's 'The Scarlet Letter' through these flashcards. Each card provides definitions and interpretations of key symbols, helping to deepen your understanding of the novel's themes and characters.
