Abstract

The Scarlet Letter is a novel that contains a strong religious color. This thesis mainly researches on the embodiment of Christian doctrines in the personality of the main characters in The Scarlet Letter, especially the doctrines of sin and redemption. First, the thesis introduces the author Hawthorne and his works, the background of the novel and some relative information about Christian doctrines. Then it analyzes responsibility, revolt and kindness of Hester, and cowardice and hypocrisy of Arthur Dimmesdale. It combines Christian doctrines with the character and we can discover that Christian doctrines have a great influence on the character. Under the double torture of sin and self-redemption, Dimmesdale became more cowardly and hypocritical. He died quietly after he confessed his sin. Hester chose to undertake sin alone and she achieved the peace of her soul by her practical redemption behaviors. 

Key words: The Scarlet Letter; Christian doctrines; character

Contents

Abstract

摘要

1. Introduction-1

2. Literature Review-2

3. The Reflection of Christian Doctrines on the Personality of Hester and Dimmesdale-3

3.1 Responsibility, revolt and kindness of Hester Prynne-3

3.2 Cowardice and hypocrisy of Mr. Dimmesdale-6

4. The Influence of Christian Doctrines-9

4.1 The influence of the doctrine of sin-9

4.2 The influence of the doctrine of redemption-10

5. Conclusion-12

Works Cited-13