The curse of modern civilization is the spirit of isolation
The Scarlet Letter is a notable literary work by Nathaniel Hawthorne. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of The Scarlet Letter.
Answer
The curse of modern civilization is the spirit of isolation. Comment in the light of the novel ‘The Scarlet Letter’. [2015]
Nathaniel Hawthorne (1804–1864), in “The Scarlet Letter” (1850), illustrates how isolation can destroy human hearts and relationships. The Puritan society in the novel stands for the cold spirit of modern civilization. Its rigid laws and harsh judgments cut people off from love and sympathy. Every main character—Hester, Dimmesdale, and Chillingworth—suffers from loneliness and spiritual separation. Through their stories, Hawthorne shows that isolation is not holiness but a deep curse that kills both joy and humanity.
Hester’s Moral Isolation: Hester Prynne becomes the first victim of isolation. Her scarlet letter makes her a stranger to others. The narrator says,
“Ah, but… let her cover the mark as she will, ….lways in her heart.”
Though she lives among people, she is alone in spirit. Society rejects her, and she must raise her child in solitude. Her loneliness makes her strong but also sad. Hawthorne shows that a heart cut off from sympathy cannot find true peace or happiness.
Dimmesdale’s Secret Isolation: Reverend Dimmesdale suffers from inner isolation. He hides his sin and pretends to be pure. A woman says,
“The Reverend Master Dimmesdale takes it very grievously to his heart.”
Ironically, his pain is unseen by others. His silence separates him from love, rest, and God. He stands before the people as holy but feels dead within. His hidden guilt becomes a wall around his soul. Hawthorne uses him to show that isolation born of hypocrisy is the worst curse of modern life.
Chillingworth’s Evil Isolation: Roger Chillingworth isolates himself through hatred and revenge. Once a calm scholar, he turns into a cruel man. Dimmesdale says,
“He has violated, in cold blood, the sanctity of a human heart.”
His desire for vengeance cuts him off from all love and pity. He lives only to destroy another man’s soul. His mind becomes dark and empty. HawthorneUnlock this study guide now