Abstract: This study aims to analyze the use of symbolism in The Scarlet Letter and its significance. It first gives a brief introduction to Nathaniel Hawthorne, The Scarlet Letter and symbolism. Then the thesis clarifies the changes of the symbolic meanings of the scarlet letter A. Meanwhile, it offers a detailed analysis of the symbolic meanings of the other main characters: Hester, Arthur Dimmesdale, Roger Chillingworth and Pearl. Moreover, some objects and even the colours appearing in this novel have special symbolic meanings. The paper concludes that it is just the use of symbolism that makes The Scarlet Letter so famous and helps Hawthorne win international fame.

Key words: The Scarlet Letter; symbolism; Hawthorne

CONTENTS

Abstract

摘要

1. Introduction1

1.1 Introduction to Nathaniel Hawthorne

1.2 Introduction to The Scarlet Letter

1.3 Introduction to Symbolism

2. Different Interpretations of the Scarlet Letter A2

2.1 “A” for “Adam” and “Adultery”

2.2 “A” for “Arthur”

2.3 “A” for “Alone” and “Alienation”

2.4 “A” for “Able”, “Admirable” and “Angel”

3. Symbolic Significance of Leading Characters.4

3.1 Hester Prynne

3.2 Arthur Dimmesdale

3.3 Roger Chillingworth

3.4 Pearl

4. Symbolic Meanings of the Objects, Settings and Colours7

4.1 Symbolic Meaning of the Scaffold

4.2 Symbolic Meaning of Prison and Rose Brush

4.3 Symbolic Meaning of the Forest and the River

4.4 Symbolic Meaning of Light and Colours

5. Conclusion

Bibliography

Acknowledgments