“The Scarlet Letter” is a well-known book by Nathaniel Hawthorne. It is the story of a woman named Hester Prynne, who is forced to wear a scarlet letter A because of her status as both an adulterer and for having a child outside of her marriage. The book is commonly read, and commonly loathed, by high school students around the US. Though many students detest the book, I believe that the book has an important story and should continue to be taught in schools worldwide.
First, the complex language in the book can expand many students’ vocabularies. However, the vocabulary used is a large part of what gives the book it’s not-so-good reputation. Reading is one of the best ways to expand vocabulary because the books are teaching the words with context, showing not only the meaning but the connotation of a word. This helps readers understand the word itself, not the dictionary definition. Though readers might have to reread a passage a few times before they understand the meaning, it will help them in the long run.
On top of that, the book teaches multiple lessons that are important for people to learn in their developmental years. In the book, there are places where readers can see the topics of sin and forgiveness explored through Hester’s story. After being forced to wear the scarlet letter as her punishment, there are times where Hester feels that her mistake defines her and makes her not worthy of existing. There are times she is ashamed, and times where she is treated horribly by her fellow Puritans.
Students can observe many themes, such as how resentment and chasing revenge does more damage to ones’ self than it does anyone else. Revenge and guilt are explored through the characters of Dimmesdale and Chillingworth. In the case of Dimmesdale, it can be seen that guilt can damage a person mentally and physically, and throughout the book readers can also examine how forgiveness affects those feelings.
High schoolers often make mistakes whether they be small or large that feel like the end of the world. This book explores how these mistakes can be resolved and forgiven. It also shows the reader the reasons why vengeance and hatred towards others is not good, for them or anyone else. Though students may hate it, they are learning an important lesson and building their brain through the footsteps of Hester Prynne.
