Revenge in The Scarlet Letter

Revenge is a powerful force that can consume individuals, driving them to commit heinous acts in order to seek retribution. In Nathaniel Hawthorne's novel, The Scarlet Letter, revenge is a prominent theme that shapes the lives of the characters and drives the plot forward. Through various instances of revenge, Hawthorne explores the destructive nature of vengeance and its consequences on both the avenger and the target. This essay will examine several examples of revenge in The Scarlet Letter, highlighting the profound impact it has on the characters and the overall message of the novel.

The Revenge of Roger Chillingworth

One of the most prominent examples of revenge in The Scarlet Letter is embodied through the character of Roger Chillingworth. Chillingworth, the estranged husband of Hester Prynne, seeks revenge against her and her secret lover, Reverend Arthur Dimmesdale, for their affair. Chillingworth's revenge is fueled by his wounded pride and desire for retribution, leading him to transform from a gentle scholar into a malevolent and sinister figure.

Chillingworth's revenge takes a toll on both his physical and mental well-being. As he delves deeper into his pursuit of revenge, he becomes consumed by his obsession, losing sight of his own humanity. Hawthorne describes Chillingworth as having "a writhing horror twisted itself across his features, like a snake gliding swiftly over them, and making one little pause, with all its wreathed intervolutions in open sight" (Hawthorne 143). This vivid imagery portrays the transformation of Chillingworth into a vengeful monster, highlighting the destructive nature of revenge.

Furthermore, Chillingworth's revenge also takes a toll on Dimmesdale, the target of his vengeance. As Chillingworth insidiously torments Dimmesdale, the reverend's health deteriorates, and he becomes consumed by guilt and self-loathing. This is evident when Dimmesdale confesses, "I, your pastor, whom you so reverence and trust, am utterly a pollution and a lie!" (Hawthorne 129). Chillingworth's revenge not only physically harms Dimmesdale but also causes him immense psychological pain, illustrating the far-reaching consequences of seeking revenge.

The revenge of Roger Chillingworth in The Scarlet Letter serves as a cautionary tale about the destructive power of vengeance. By allowing revenge to consume him, Chillingworth loses his humanity and becomes a malevolent force, ultimately leading to his own downfall. Hawthorne's portrayal of revenge emphasizes the negative consequences it has on both the avenger and the target, highlighting the futility and destructive nature of seeking retribution.

The Revenge of Mistress Hibbins

Another example of revenge in The Scarlet Letter can be seen through the character of Mistress Hibbins. Although her role in the novel is relatively minor, she serves as a symbol of revenge and represents the dark undercurrents of Puritan society.

Mistress Hibbins seeks revenge against those who adhere to the strict moral code of the Puritan society. She is depicted as a witch who revels in the misfortune of others and actively seeks to corrupt those around her. Hawthorne describes her as having "a wild vitality of spirit" and "a truth that few could have borne up under" (Hawthorne 76). Mistress Hibbins uses her knowledge of the townspeople's secrets to manipulate and seek revenge against those she perceives as hypocrites.

Furthermore, Mistress Hibbins's revenge is also directed towards Hester Prynne, the embodiment of sin in the Puritan community. She revels in Hester's public shame and actively taunts her, reminding her of her transgressions. This form of revenge highlights the judgmental and vindictive nature of Puritan society, where even the outcasts are not spared from the desire for retribution.

The revenge of Mistress Hibbins serves as a critique of the oppressive and judgmental nature of Puritan society. Through her character, Hawthorne exposes the hypocrisy and cruelty that can arise from a society driven by revenge and punishment. By portraying Mistress Hibbins as a symbol of revenge, Hawthorne highlights the destructive consequences of seeking retribution and the need for forgiveness and understanding.

Conclusion

In The Scarlet Letter, revenge is a central theme that permeates the lives of the characters and shapes the narrative. Through the examples of Roger Chillingworth and Mistress Hibbins, Nathaniel Hawthorne explores the destructive nature of revenge and its far-reaching consequences. Both characters, consumed by their desire for retribution, ultimately suffer their own downfall, highlighting the futility and destructive nature of seeking revenge.

Furthermore, Hawthorne's portrayal of revenge serves as a critique of the oppressive and judgmental nature of Puritan society. By depicting revenge as a driving force behind the characters' actions, he exposes the hypocrisy and cruelty that can arise from a society driven by punishment and retribution.

In conclusion, The Scarlet Letter serves as a cautionary tale about the destructive power of revenge. Through his exploration of revenge, Hawthorne conveys the message that forgiveness and understanding are essential for personal growth and societal harmony. The novel's depiction of revenge emphasizes the negative consequences it has on both the avenger and the target, urging readers to reflect on the futility and destructive nature of seeking retribution.

Bibliography

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