Symbolism

Hawthorne’s The Scarlet Letter is considered the first symbolic novel in American Literature. His use of symbolism in the novel presents a complex view of sin and its effects. Utilizing characters, colors, settings, and objects Hawthorne’s extended metaphors shape and develop throughout the plot. Three main symbols used in expressing Hawthorne’s message are the forest, the use of sunlight and shadows, and the use of colors. The use of colors in The …

…there will always be a place where the truth will come forward. In The Scarlet Letter Hawthorne creates the first use of symbolism in American Literature. In this symbolism he conveys his message to be truthful in all circumstances. He uses the characters, surroundings, and colors to accomplish this task. In doing so he presents a complex few of sin and its effects on his characters in a piece of work called The Scarlet Letter.