Scarlet Letter Symbolism

The Scarlet Letter is a book of much symbolism. One of the most complex symbols in the book is Pearl, the daughter of Hester Prynne. Pearl, throughout the story, develops into a symbol and one that is always changing. In the following essay, I will explore the symbolism Pearl came to represent throughout the book. In The Scarlet Letter, Hester, for her sins, received a scarlet letter, "A" which she had to wear upon her chest. This was the Puritan way of treating her as a criminal, for adultery. As Hester would walk through the streets, she would be looked down upon as if she were some sort of demon from Hell that committed a terrible crime. This would give her much anguish and grief. …