Abstract

The Scarlet Letter is the masterpiece of Nathaniel Hawthorne, a famous writers in American literary world. And it is well known for its symbols and symbolism. Symbolism refers to the use of a concrete object or action to represent an abstract idea. Because of the effect of the symbols, the delicate feelings, the complicated social phenomenon and the essence of the human nature’s conflicts are all displayed impressively. As Hawthorne’s masterpiece, The Scarlet Letter mainly tells an unusual story of Hester Prynne. It is known to all that Hester in this novel is a controversial character and her unique traits of character are depicted vividly by Nathaniel Hawthorne. The letter “A” changes its meanings with the development of the story. This paper will analyze the character of Hester Prynne plus the driving force of her struggles and compromises based on the theory of personality structure. This paper aims to make readers get an overall understanding of Hester Prynne. 

Key words: symbolism; Hester Prynne; struggle; compromise; adultery

Contents

Abstract

摘要

1. Introudiction-1

1.1 A Brief Introduction to Nathaniel Hawthorne-1

1.2 A Brief Introduction to The Scarlet Letter-2

2. Literature review-2

2.1 Studies Abroad-2

2.2 Studies at Home-4

2.3-Summary-4

3. The theory of personality structure-4

3.1 The Id-5

3.2 The Ego-5

3.3 The Super-ego-6

3.4 Summary -7

4. Hester Prynne’s struggles and compromises-7

4.1 A Brief Introduction to Hester’s Life-8

4.2 Hester’s Struggles Driven by Id-8

4.3 Hester’s Struggles under the Influence of Ego-9

4.3.1 Hester’s struggle against the Puritanism-10

4.3.2 Hester’s struggle against the revenge-12

4.4 Hester’s Compromises Motivated by Super-ego-14

4.4.1 Wearing the token “A” as atonement-14

4.4.2 Serving the community with love-15

4.5 Summary -16

5. Conclusion-17

Reference-18