Get Scarlet Letter Study Guide Answer Key

The Scarlet Letter themes include a study of sin and redemption as well as the conflict between appearance and reality. Hawthorne considers the nature of sin—especially hidden sin, found in Arthur Dimmesdale's character. Wracked by his adultery, Dimmesdale's sin consumes him from within.

Hester keeps secret the name of her illegitimate child's father (Reverend Dimmesdale) and the true identity of Roger Chillingworth (her husband). She will not reveal Pearl's father to protect Reverend Dimmesdale's reputation, as he is the minister of the church.

The moral of The Scarlet Letter is that secret sin leads to guilt and pain.

The Scarlet Letter is commentary on sin, guilt and oppression in Puritan Society. Hawthorne creates an allegory, which offers a lesson on the ramifications of personal guilt and responsibility.

Difficult but Rewarding First of all: this was a really hard book to read. You can definitely tell that it was written in the 1850s (I think). The age rating I gave was for difficulty. If you're looking for content appropriateness, I'd say 12+.

The moral of The Scarlet Letter is that secret sin leads to guilt and pain.

As punishment, she must wear a scarlet letter 'A' (for "adultery"). Containing a number of religious and historic allusions, the book explores themes of legalism, sin and guilt. The Scarlet Letter was one of the first mass-produced books in the United States.

What are Hester's thoughts regarding these changes? What happens between Hester and Roger? He used to be a quiet, studious, intellectual man, but now he is revengeful and full of hatred. Hester comes to the conclusion that she hates him and that he has betrayed her in the same ways she has betrayed him.