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Redemption In The Scarlet Letter

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Redemption In The Scarlet Letter
Hester’s Redemption Being saved from sin. Proving that you are worthy. Redemption. Hester Prynne has a life full of redeeming herself. In fact, her daughter Pearl, and the scarlet letter are connected together, because they both redeem Hester. Pearl is one of the main reasons that Hester has to wear the letter “A.” Consequently, Hester was named an adulterer in the act of her having her child.
Although, Pearl is a product of sin, she helps redeem Hester. Even though Pearl is named a “witch child”, she herself is an amazing person. In addition, Pearl is very beautiful, and her mother makes her dresses with elegance and perfection. By the same token, Hester dresses her daughter just like she decorates the scarlet letter. With this in mind, I believe Hester is using Pearl to redeem herself by showing all the townspeople what a great creation she has made. Pearl is a constant reminder for her mother to be a better person. She reminds Hester of her sin everyday just by looking at her, therefore, Hester improves herself all the time. Hester gives back to the community
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On the breast of her own gown, in fine red cloth, surrounded with an elaborate embroidery and fantastic flourishes of gold-thread, appeared the letter A.” (39)
Once Hester leaves that old town, after some time, she finally decides to come back and put her old scarlet letter back on her breast. Why does she do this? Does she do it because she wants everyone to remember her? Does she put it back on because she likes remembering her sin? She does it to show that she overcame her sin, and that letter is filled with redemption. Provided that, Hester wears the letter with pride. In addition, this quote helps explain this

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