Topic > Scarlet Letter Feminism - 862

Many writers contributed to the idea of ​​feminism by promoting heroines who defied the odds of a harsh society. Such a character can be found in The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne who reveals the lack of respect women receive when they choose to act on their desires, against society. The Scarlet Letter provides an in-depth analysis of women's rights and their value in society at the end of the 17th century. While Hawthorne was writing the novel, The Scarlet Letter, a feminist movement began to take root in American history which helped Hawthorne be aware of women's movement for their rights and freedom. Hawthorne's attitude towards women and being sexist demonstrate the fact that Hawthorne has feelings of aversion towards feminism and therefore this identifies him as a true feminist. In other words, Hawthorne was trying to illustrate to the reader that in his time there was inequality between the sexes and oppression between men and women. Hester Prynne can be used as an example of a true feminist, as she makes her way in a society that has devalued her. Hester Prynne is a woman whose shameful act is literally seen on her breast, yet she finds strength from that label. She uses the stigma of adultery as a way to create a new path in her life, to go places other women never venture and do things other women don't dare do. In agreement with this idea, Hawthorne writes: “The scarlet letter was her passport to regions where other women dared not venture. Shame, despair, loneliness! These had been her teachers, severe and wild, and they had made her strong” (180). This shows that even though Hester had been persecuted by half of the newspaper, by the modern feminist. Hawthorne uses many aspects of Hester Prynne to show her as a feminist character and demonstrate the rise of women for the cause. their rights and freedom during that period of time. Her actions demonstrate her strength and worth as a person regardless of the expectations placed on her as a woman. Society's actions have placed this character in a feminist situation, a fact clearly addressed in her thoughts. Hester Prynne, compared to other women of that period, was different because she always fought and defended herself and her only daughter. It was her inner strength that helped her stand out from the crowd and make a difference in society for women fighting for rights. Hester Prynne, from every point of view can be called a true feminist because of her actions and circumstances that led to changes in society.