Symbolism and Important Events Which occurred in the Scarlet Letter

1. The Scarlet “A” - The town magistrates sentenced Hester to wear the scarlet "A" for the rest of her life so everyone could recognize her as an adulteress. Over time, however, newcomers did not know the history of the scarlet “A” and asked its significance. Some townspeople remembered it’s meaning, but others forgot, or transformed it to indicate "able" because of Hester's steady performance of benefiting the sick and the needy.
2. The Heart - Dimmesdale's placing his hand over his heart is symbolic of his attempt to cover his mark of sinfulness and prevent his exposure. It also suggests his nervous condition and reflects his grieved state.
3. Pearl - Pearl is a sort of living version of her mother's scarlet letter. Yet, even as a reminder of Hester's "sin," Pearl is more than a punishment to her mother: she is also a blessing. She not only represents "sin" but also the role that caused that sin. Pearl's existence gives her mother reason to live, strengthening...