Suffering is the Best Medicine
Most would say suffering exists as the bane of humanity, as it disrupts both physical and emotional balance. But contrary to the assertion that suffering holds no meaning, it may allow the ability to strengthen a person’s resolve. The characters of Nathaniel Hawthorne's The Scarlet Letter constantly struggle with great emotional torment that threatens to destroy them completely. But due to the genius of Hawthorne’s literary skill, he illustrates the idea that suffering holds the key to forming a stronger self. As such, the punishments that Hester Prynne and Arthur Dimmesdale have to endure reflect their own personalities, and one can witness as they both evolve and overcome their torments.
The scarlet letter Hester receives symbolizes the stigma and oppression of society, but also acts as a certain catalyst that she utilizes to overcome society’s negativity and spiritual corruption. Originally, the Scarlet Letter has "such potent and disastrous efficacy", that "no human sympathy" can reach her (81). Hawthorne utilizes the fear of sin in the Puritan community, and as a result, the letter itself acts as a palpable caveat that drives them away. In turn, Hester has to bear the burden of ostracization from the community due to her crimes against God Himself, as well as Puritan ethics. But as "the tendency of her fame and fortunes...set her free", the scarlet letter transforms itself into a "passport into regions where other women dare not tread" (180). By committing the sinful act of adultery, Hester parted with her Puritan morals and gained a new sense of freedom that outweighs the stigma of the ominous 'A'. Hawthorne transforms the Scarlet Letter from a curse to a blessing, just as Hester turns it from a blot of shame into a badge of honor. She overcomes her initial suffering, and channels that energy into assisting others, impressing the Puritans with her compassion. Because of her actions, the Puritans revised the meaning of...