Symbols in the Scarlet Letter

3. Discuss the functions of the three characters that stand as symbols in The Scarlet Letter.
The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne is a novel full of rich symbolism. Hawthorne utilizes the characters in his story to reveal many underlying meanings significant to the plot. The ways in which he develops his characters help the reader grasp the important ideas that he wishes to portray throughout the story. Three such key characters utilized to portray this important symbolism are Pearl (the impish daughter of Hester), Reverend Dimmesdale (the clandestine father of Pearl), and Roger Chillingworth (the vengeful husband of Hester Prynne). These figures will prove to be very helpful in creating the theme of the novel.
Hawthorne uses Pearl as an extremely obvious symbol to demonstrate to the reader what the scarlet letter means and how much of an example she is of her mother’s vice. Pearl’s character as Hester Prynne’s daughter is very mischievous and almost ...