September 18, 2005
another "Pearl" of wisdom...
Hawthorne, The Scarlet Letter (Ch 14-21) -- American Literature, 1800-1915 (EL 266)
I haven't finished the reading yet but I wanted to comment on Pearl in chapter 15.
"Dost thou know, child, wherefore thy mother wears this letter?"
"Truly do I!" answered Pearl, looking brightly into her mother's face. "It is for the same reason that the minister keeps his hand over his heart!"
Although the conversation goes on to reveal that Pearl does not know the exact reason, just the fact that a child of seven should have such insight is amazing. She really does sound like she is her mother's conscience talking. Hawthorne has given this child such intuition that it floors me. And when Hester asks Pearl what the reason is and Pearl comments that she has told all she knows, to ask the "old man whom thou hast been talking with!" (Chillingworth) This child has noticed far more than you would expect a child to notice in watching the interactions among these three adults. Perhaps there is something to my idea for a paper about Pearl being the wisest character in the story despite her age. (Or perhaps in part because of??)
Posted by HollyMcCloy at 02:30 AM | Comments (6)
September 14, 2005
The Scarlet Letter 8-13
I found it very intersting the way that Chillingworth has insinuated himself into Dimmesdale's life. He has grown obsessed with the man. The conversation between the two in chapter 10 about secrets was perhaps an interesting forshadowing?
It is also interesting that though Chilligsworth was well revieved because of his vocation when he arrived in town, many townspeople are now starting to not like him.
Another point I liked was in chapter 8 when Pearl was being examined about her catechisms and acted rebellious. Perhaps this is another example of her acting out what her mother cannot? She has been taught in these matters.
Posted by HollyMcCloy at 04:37 PM | Comments (0)
September 10, 2005
The Scarlet Letter--Chpt 1-7
I found the scene of chapter 2 interesting. The Puritans are supposed to be such a devout group of Christians, but they seem to get such enjoyment out of "throwing stones' so to speak. Perhaps they feel that if they keep all the attention on the sins of their neighbor, there will be less time for anyone to find out about their own sins?
I also find it interesting that both Hester and her former husband decide to stay in the town of her punishment. I can understand why he would not want it to be known that he is her husband(who has finally returned) because of the shame that would bring on him. But if she is able to leave and start a new life where her sin is unknown, I think she should, if only for her daughters sake. The only reason to stay is if she is so in love with the daughter's father that she wants to at least be in close proximity.
It is also interesting the way that Hester chooses to dress both herself and Pearl. Does she make Pearl's dress resemble her scarlet letter as a living reminder to herself of her sin or as a reminder that of that sin came a miracle?
Posted by HollyMcCloy at 08:10 PM | Comments (0)