Introduction to Dualism in Hawthorne’s Narrative
The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne is not just a tale of sin and redemption; it serves as a complex exploration of dualism. This concept, which refers to the division of something into two contrasting aspects, permeates the narrative. The tension between good and evil, purity and sin, or individual freedom versus societal constraints is woven intricately throughout the fabric of this American classic. By examining how these dualistic themes manifest in the characters and setting of the novel, we can gain deeper insights into its portrayal of human nature and moral complexity.
The Dichotomy of Characters
One way that dualism is expressed in The Scarlet Letter is through its central characters: Hester Prynne, Arthur
