Nathaniel Hawthorne's Attitudes Toward Puritans

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Nathaniel Hawthorne family history contributed to his attitude toward the Puritans because his ancestors were descent of businessmen, judges, and seamen, from Salem, Massachusetts; all Puritans. Hawthorne’s great great grandfather, John Hathorne, was a judge during the Salem witch trials. During the trials, John was the only judge who never repented any of his actions. Due to his grandfather’s actions who oversaw the trials, Nathaniel later added the “W” in his last name in order to hide his relation with him. It is possible that Hawthorne discovered what actions his ancestors may have done or did not do that made him feel disgust or disheartening. Based on Hawthorne's action, the tone that will be set throughout the novel will be informative and condemning.

Journal Entry 2: Chapters 1-2 Hawthorne's attitude toward Puritans can be seen as opposite. Although he was born into a family many generations raised with the belief of Puritanism, to his extent, he believes that it is cruel and unjust. For example, his ancestors William Hathorne who emigrated to the Americas in the mid 1600’s, was involved in the persecution of the quakers. He tortured or sentenced them to …show more content…
The letter is a symbol that represents the adultery and needlework of Hester and the hidden mortification of the community. Hester then becomes the one who shoulders the society sins. When people show pity for Hester, it is maybe that they too have secret sins. Thus the letter can symbolize shame that is upon everyone rather than Hester alone. Pearl’s character is shown as a symbol of complicated love and compassion. At the age of three, Pearl is described as the perfect child, almost like an angel. Even though she is depicted with characteristics of an angel, she is the constant reminder of Hester’s adultery
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