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Public Vs. Private Dichotomy In The Scarlet Letter

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As explained in the topic paragraph, behaviors of characters in The Scarlet Letter are shaped by the “Public vs. Private” dichotomy. The narrator seems to imply that satisfying one’s personal impulses is more significant than conforming to cultural/ social demands. The overall main character, Hester Prynne, is shown throughout the novel on how she should either do what makes her blithe or to conform to what society thinks she should do. The idea of “truth” often plays a key role in the progression of events and development of a character’s personality. The Puritan community is a very strong presence mentioned throughout the whole novel. Society in general had shunned Hester for the adultery she had committed. After she was released

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