The Scaralet Letter, a novel by Nathaniel Hawthorne, is a perfect example of symbolism in writing. Hawthorne displays this with many symbols, such as the prison, the letter A, and the scaffold. Another main symbol is the forest. The forest, and the path running through it, represent not only wilderness and unhappiness, but also freedom.The path leading through the forest from the town goes from an inhabited, civilized society to an unknown wilderness. On the path, Hester tries to step into the sunlight, but it always seems to "run" away from her. However, Pearl doesn't have to try to get the sunlight, it comes to her. This shows Hester's inability to find happiness and warmth. This darkness from Hester is lifted when she encounters Arthur Dimmesdale on the path.Hester has been waiting for Arthur so she can tell him the truth about Chillingwroth, who is her husband. Hester and Arthur feel that the only way to get away from Chillingworth is to flee from Boston. Once this decision is made, Hester frees herself from the image and confines of the letter by throwing it away and letting down her hair. Once she has released herself, the darkness is lifted and a flood of light illuminates the forest. The Scarlet Letter is a book of much symbolism. A good example of this is the forest, and the path that runs through it. Although they represent much more, the most obvious things that they symbolize are freedom, wilderness, and unhappiness. ...
