Regarded as the most successful novel written by Hawthorne, The Scarlet Letter is remarkable for its distinctive feature of symbolism which should be particularly mentioned. Symbolism means using an image to refer to something else, which is fully showed in this novel. Hawthorne’s mind works with the help of signs and symbols. Besides the scarlet letter “A”, the names of the characters and the flowers, the scaffold is symbolic too.
The scaffold, as a form of public punishment and humiliation, contains different symbolic meanings to different characters. The scaffold scenes, mentioned three times throughout the novel, are the major settings used as symbols. It is the three scaffold scenes that bring the four major characters together and bring the story to a climax. So the scaffold plays a significant role in developing the story and uniting the characters.
The symbolic meaning of the scaffold is changing as the story develops. To Arthur Dimmesdale, the scaffold serves as a torture, a safe heaven and a soul-free place as the story goes. The inner world of the respected minister develops with the appearance of the scaffold at different times. Due to his cowardice and hypocrisy, Dimmesdale goes through seven years of inner torment and struggle, but only when he stands on the scaffold in broad daylight can his mental agony be alleviated.
The Symbolic Meanings of the Scaffold to
Arthur Dimmesdale in The Scarlet Letter
Outline
Thesis Statement: The scaffold has different symbolic meanings to Arthur Dimmesdale in the three scenes. As the character develops, the scaffold serves as a symbol of torture, a safe heaven and a soul-free place.
I. Introduction
II. In the market-place, Arthur Dimmesdale’s conscience is tortured when Hester Prynne is publicly condemned on the scaffold.
A. The public’s condemnation to Hester Prynne is a shame to Arthur Dimmesdale.
B. Hester’s insistence of unrevealing his name is a torture to him.
1. His cowardice is a big contrast to Hester’s composure and bravery.
2. He is anxious that Hester will expose his name.
III. At the night of early May, the scaffold is a trusted safe heaven to Arthur Dimmesdale when he stands with Hester and his daughter.
A. The scaffold is the only place for him to mitigate his inner struggle.
1. Roger Chillingworth’s accompany magnifies his pain.
2. He craves for the freedom of soul.
3. He feels comfortable when he stands on the scaffold with Hester and Pearl.
B. Standing together with Hester and Pearl on the scaffold is a compensation for them.
IV．On the Election Day, Arthur Dimmesdale’s soul is set free and gets redemption after his confession on the scaffold.
A. The scaffold is the end of his torture.
B. The scaffold is the rebirth of his soul.
V. Conclusion
