Entry 34:
"The scarlet letter had the effect of the cross on a nun's bosom."
The scarlet letter keeping her safe is one idea that could be possible. In this instance, the cross could symbolize redemption. People that believe that Christ died on the cross to wash away the sins of mankind, are redeemed in the eyes of God and will go to Heaven. The same idea goes for Hester by wearing the scarlet letter, and having Pearl to show her sin. Eventually her sins start dwindling away, and the A stands for something more than just an 'adulterer'.
Interesting idea. Would this back up the idea of Hester being a Mary-type figure? And Dimmesdale's death being a type of Christ like moment? He dies for everyone's sins (the communities).
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