Analysis of Feminist Criticism in "The Scarlet Letter" by Nathaniel Hawthorne

One of the most prominent characters in Nathaniel Hawthorne's "The Scarlet Letter" is Hester Prynne, the young adulteress whose forbidden actions have led her to become a representation of sin to the Puritanic community around her. However, these negative views of her ironically grant Hester Prynne the freedom to govern her own life, without the rigid constrictions of the patriarchal society in which she lives. During the time period that Hester lives in, women were …

…did not reveal the name of her accomplice, she worked hard and honestly to earn a living, she did her best to regain respect in the community, and the list goes on. Though she committed an adulterous sin, Hester Prynne was still able to live a full, healthy, honorable, and commendable life. Because of her independence, perseverance, and immense amounts of inner strength, Hester Prynne has allowed herself to become fully worth of all admiration.