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Figurative Language In Scarlet Letter

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The Scarlet Letter, written by Nathaniel Hawthorne, reveals many aspects of human nature. One of Hawthorne’s prevalent themes is the way in which hidden sin affects the human soul. Through the progression of Reverend Arthur Dimmesdale, Hawthorne explores the dynamic way in which hidden sin ultimately induces more suffering than open ignominy, using figurative language and contrast to convey his message. Immediately before Dimmesdale gives an impassioned plea for Hester to reveal her partner in sin, Hawthorne indicates through imagery and contrast that Dimmesdale’s sin does not yet have a great impact on his livelihood. Hawthorne notes that Dimmesdale’s “eloquence and religious fervor had already given the earnest of high eminence (46).” Dimmesdale has a high standing in the …show more content…

Although Dimmesdale achieves great popularity as a preacher, Hawthorne reveals that Dimmesdale is constantly being “gnawed and tortured by some black trouble of the soul” (97). Hawthorne’s specific word choice helps to emphasize the nature of Dimmesdale’s suffering. “Gnawing” suggests a persistent and steady breakdown, while “torture” carries connotations of extreme pain. Hawthorne carefully chooses these words to illustrate that Dimmesdale’s soul is continuously disintegrating because of his hidden sin, causing him great pain. In fact, Dimmesdale’s whole being is so false that “the only truth… was the anguish in his inmost soul” (100). Once again, Hawthorne emphasizes Dimmesdale’s great suffering with the word “anguish,” which denotes severe mental and physical pain. Also, by narrating the falsehoods in Dimmesdale’s life, Hawthorne reveals the hypocrisy that plagues Dimmesdale’s soul. Through his eloquent usage of figurative language and word choice, Hawthorne illustrates the utter deterioration and disintegration of Dimmesdale’s

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