The Scarlet Letter: Writer's Techniques

The Scarlet Letter: Writer’s Techniques

• Structure of the Novel: This is a chronological narrative that employs various flashbacks and several time-leaps to creates a narrative structure that is enigmatic yet engaging.
• Atmosphere of the Novel: The atmosphere of the novel is characterised by oppressive puritanical morals and societal expectation, giving it a dark and melancholic tone.
• Narrative: The narrative, narrated by an unnamed third-person narrator, employs in-depth character analysis, commentary, and appreciation for moral complexities to tell Hester’s story.
• Language: Hawthorne uses ornate, formal and slightly archaic language aligned with its 17th century setting, which adds to the overall grave and oppressive atmosphere of the novel.
• Imagery: Hawthorne uses vibrant visual imagery, pertaining mainly to nature, the town, and the scarlet letter, to give readers a vivid mental picture and accentuate the symbolism and themes in the novel.
• Symbolism: The novel heavily relies on symbolism, particularly the Scarlet Letter ‘A’, Pearl, and the prison door, to represent themes such as sin, guilt, punishment, and redemption.