What is symbolism in the scarlet letter?
Some of the symbols include: The Scarlet Letter “A”: The chief symbol in the novel is the scarlet letter “A”, which openly symbolizes Hester’s adultery. For Dimmesdale and Hester, the scarlet letter stands for agony, which Hester displays in her isolated life and which Dimmesdale displays in his deteriorating health. The Scaffold: The scaffold is a symbol of penitence and God’s platform on the Day of Judgment. It is a reflection of appearing before the Almighty in one’s weakness. The Prison: The prison, presented in the opening chapter of the novel, is a symbol of isolation and alienation, foreshadowing the life that Hester will lead even after she leaves its confines. The Rose Bush: The rose bush growing across from the prison respresents a constant reminder of salvation and hope to all the prisoners. Pearl: Pearl, Hester’s daughter, is a symbol of all that Hester gave up when she committed adultery and gave up her place in Puritan society. There are more symbols in these web links be
