James informs the reader that the term “Goodman” is derived from an outdated term of the period used to identify a married farmer. This term is just one rung below a gentleman on the social latter of the time (James). Some other symbolic references that can be applied to this are that “Young” refers to youthful age and naivety, while “Goodman” infers being uncorrupted (Lorcher). This naivety can be seen as a direct reference to his being tempted by Satan on his forthcoming journey and the potential loss of innocence. Goodman Brown informs his newlywed wife that he must take this mysterious journey without deviation. In this manner, it is very much like Hawthorne’s own father leaving on the mysterious sea voyage and never returning. This journey happened despite Faith’s misgivings. He proceeds to walk into the gloomy woods and the darkest trees seem to make way for his passage and then quickly engulf behind him (George). A picture is painted much like that of Mose’s parting the Red Sea. This is also much like the symbolic view of sin which beckons and then consumes the unwary. Indicative of Hawthorne’s relatives going down dark paths like the persecution of the Quakers or suspected
James informs the reader that the term “Goodman” is derived from an outdated term of the period used to identify a married farmer. This term is just one rung below a gentleman on the social latter of the time (James). Some other symbolic references that can be applied to this are that “Young” refers to youthful age and naivety, while “Goodman” infers being uncorrupted (Lorcher). This naivety can be seen as a direct reference to his being tempted by Satan on his forthcoming journey and the potential loss of innocence. Goodman Brown informs his newlywed wife that he must take this mysterious journey without deviation. In this manner, it is very much like Hawthorne’s own father leaving on the mysterious sea voyage and never returning. This journey happened despite Faith’s misgivings. He proceeds to walk into the gloomy woods and the darkest trees seem to make way for his passage and then quickly engulf behind him (George). A picture is painted much like that of Mose’s parting the Red Sea. This is also much like the symbolic view of sin which beckons and then consumes the unwary. Indicative of Hawthorne’s relatives going down dark paths like the persecution of the Quakers or suspected