The Scarlet Letter

The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne is a novel full of character study and definition. Hawthorne attempts to discover the effects of sin upon the human mind. With Arthur Dimmesdale, Hawthorne pursues what effects unconfessed sin has on the mind and body. It is clear to see that by not confessing his sin of adultery, Dimmesdale sinks into a sickness and depression that, while he sometimes attempts to break free of, he can never really …

…novel, Hawthorne examines Arthur Dimmesdale, and how he progresses under the weight of his burden. Dimmesdale tries to confess in many different ways, but none are successful until the final scaffold scene. The effects of the sin weighed Dimmesdale down and stole his health and strength, both physically and mentally. One can only wonder at the fact that maybe, with an earlier confession, Dimmesdale could have avoided his heartache and resumed a healthy, happy life.