Comment on the use of irony in “The Scarlet Letter”
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
Comment on the use of irony in “The Scarlet Letter”. [2021]
Nathaniel Hawthorne (1804–1864), in “The Scarlet Letter” (1850), uses irony to deepen the moral and emotional effect of his story. Irony means a contrast between what appears to be true and what actually is true. Hawthorne uses this device to show the hypocrisy of Puritan society and the weakness of human nature. Through the characters of Hester, Dimmesdale, and Chillingworth, he reveals the ironic gap between appearance and reality, purity and sin, punishment and forgiveness.
Public Shame And Hidden Sin: The greatest irony lies in the contrast between Hester’s open shame and Dimmesdale’s secret guilt. Hester is punished in public, yet she becomes stronger and purer. Dimmesdale hides his sin and becomes weak and sick. An unnamed woman says,
“The Reverend Master Dimmesdale takes it very grievously to his heart….”
The irony is clear because Dimmesdale himself is the sinner. His holy image hides his crime. Hawthorne uses this irony to expose human hypocrisy and weakness.
The Letter as Punishment and Glory: The scarlet letter “A” is meant to bring shame, but it becomes a symbol of honour. People first read it as “Adulteress,” but later it seems to mean “Able.” The narrator says,
“It may serve… to symbolize some sweet moral blossom.”
The letter, once a mark of sin, turns into a lesson of strength and sympathy. Ironically, what society means for punishment becomes a path to moral growth. Hester’s pain brings beauty and goodness to others. Thus, the symbol defeats its cruel purpose.
Chillingworth’s Evil Purpose: Chillingworth’s revenge also carries deep irony. He hides his true identity and pretends to be a healer, but he becomes the real destroyer. Dimmesdale says,
“He has violated, in cold blood, the sanctity of a human heart.”
The physician who should heal actually kills the soul of another man. His desire to punish turns him into a greater sinner than Hester or Dimmesdale. Hawthorne showsUnlock this study guide now