Nature in The Scarlet Letter: Revealing The Historical Context

When examining Nathaniel Hawthorne's classic novel, The Scarlet Letter, it becomes evident that nature plays a significant role in shaping the narrative and reflecting the historical context of the story. Through the use of descriptive language and imagery, Hawthorne portrays the natural landscape as a mirror of the characters' emotions and the societal expectations they face.

One recurring phrase in the novel, "before the jail, in prison lane," is particularly revealing of the historical context. By exploring the implications of these words, we can gain a deeper understanding of the Puritan society in which the story is set and the impact of their strict religious beliefs on the characters and their surroundings.

The Historical Context of "Before the Jail, in Prison Lane"

The phrase "before the jail, in prison lane" appears several times throughout The Scarlet Letter, serving as a reminder of the strict and oppressive society in which the characters live. In the Puritan town of Boston, the jail is a prominent symbol of punishment and shame. Positioned in prison lane, it represents the physical embodiment of the societal expectations and limitations placed upon individuals.

During the time period in which the novel is set, Puritan society was characterized by its strict adherence to religious principles and its harsh punishment of those who deviated from the established norms. The notion of sin and public shame were deeply ingrained in the community, and the jail symbolized the consequences of transgressions.

By using the phrase "before the jail, in prison lane," Hawthorne not only highlights the physical location of the jail but also underscores the pervasive influence of societal expectations on the characters. It serves as a constant reminder of the consequences of sin and the oppressive nature of the Puritan society.

Nature as a Reflection of Emotions

In addition to revealing the historical context, nature in The Scarlet Letter also serves as a reflection of the characters' emotions and inner struggles. Hawthorne masterfully employs vivid descriptions of the natural landscape to convey the characters' states of mind and the complexities of their situations.

One example of this is evident in Hester Prynne's first appearance on the scaffold in the opening chapters of the novel. As she stands before the town, her scarlet letter shining brightly, the surrounding nature is described as desolate and bleak. Hawthorne writes, "The little birds, whose breasts were as yet but slightly downy, chirped on the twigs and bushes, as if rejoicing over the desolation of the scene."

Here, the contrast between Hester's public shame and the natural world highlights the isolation and despair she experiences. The chirping birds, typically symbols of joy and vitality, instead reflect the desolation of the scene and emphasize Hester's emotional turmoil.

Furthermore, the use of nature to reflect emotions is not limited to Hester alone. Throughout the novel, the natural landscape undergoes transformations corresponding to the characters' inner journeys. For instance, when Hester and Arthur Dimmesdale meet in the forest, the setting is described as a place of refuge and freedom. Hawthorne writes, "The forest was obscure around them, and creaked with a blast that was passing through it. The boughs were tossing heavily above their heads; while one solemn old tree groaned dolefully to another, as if telling the sad story of the pair that sat beneath, or constrained to forbode evil to come."

Here, the forest represents a departure from the oppressive and judgmental society of Boston. It becomes a space where Hester and Dimmesdale can reveal their true selves and experience a brief respite from the weight of their secrets. The groaning trees and the creaking wind convey a sense of foreboding, hinting at the consequences that await the characters.

Conclusion

Through the use of nature imagery and the recurring phrase "before the jail, in prison lane," Nathaniel Hawthorne effectively reveals the historical context of The Scarlet Letter. By exploring the implications of these words, we gain insight into the oppressive nature of the Puritan society and the impact of societal expectations on the characters.

Additionally, Hawthorne utilizes the natural landscape to reflect the characters' emotions and inner struggles. Nature becomes a powerful tool for conveying the complexities of their situations and highlighting their psychological turmoil.

In conclusion, the use of nature in The Scarlet Letter not only adds depth and richness to the narrative but also serves as a means of revealing the historical context of the novel. By examining the implications of the phrase "before the jail, in prison lane" and analyzing the ways in which nature reflects the characters' emotions, we gain a deeper understanding of the story and its broader implications.

Overall, Hawthorne's masterful portrayal of nature in The Scarlet Letter serves as a reminder of the power of the natural world to shape our experiences and reflect the historical context in which we live.

Bibliography

Hawthorne, Nathaniel. The Scarlet Letter. Penguin Classics, 2015.