Scaffold in Scarlet Letter Symbolism essays

Scaffold in Scarlet Letter Symbolism essays The framework of that instrument of discipline, so fashioned as to confine the human head in its tight grasp, and thus hold it up to the public gaze (9). These words help describe the ominous place known as the scaffold. Throughout the Scarlet Letter, the scaffold is a reoccurring symbol that symbolizes human nature throughout the course of the book. In addition to being a symbol of shame and guilt, the scaffold is a form of public punishment and humiliation. Furthermore, the scaffold reveals the development of the story and character involvement with the sin of adultery. The scaffold symbolizes many aspects of human nature throughout the course of the book. The scaffold symbolizes the shame and guilt of sin along with love and punishment. For example, when Hester committed adultery with Dimmesdale, the sin was committed out of love. Hester followed her human nature and heart when she committed the sin. After Hester is convicted of adultery, she is portrayed as an outcast of society. When Hester is seen on the scaffold, she hides her scarlet letter because the letter is viewed as a symbol of sin, shame, guilt, and punishment. Hesters guilt and shame are shown by the way that she stands on the scaffold. She doesnt hold herself in a high manner; however, she slouches and tries to hide from the crowd. While standing on the scaffold, Hester feels alone, isolated, and as if the world is out to get her. Thousands of emotions and thoughts run through Hesters head while she is on the scaffold. In addition to being a symbol of shame and guilt, the scaffold is a form of public punishment and humiliation. Hester is forced to stand in front of her peers and be harassed for the sin she has committed out of love. Hawthorne described how Hester felt as she headed towards the scaffold: She perchance underwent an agony from every footstep of those that thronged to see her, as if her heart had been flung into t...