Nathaniel Hawthorne

Definition

Nathaniel Hawthorne was an American novelist and short story writer known for his dark romanticism and exploration of themes such as sin, guilt, and the complexities of human nature. His works often reflect a fascination with moral ambiguity and the effects of the past on the present, placing him as a significant figure in American literature before 1900.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hawthorne was born on July 4, 1804, in Salem, Massachusetts, a location that greatly influenced his writing.
2. He is known for his use of symbolism, particularly in works like 'The Scarlet Letter' where the scarlet letter 'A' symbolizes shame and societal judgment.
3. Hawthorne's writing often critiques Puritanism and explores how guilt and sin affect individuals and their relationships with society.
4. He was close friends with Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau but often took a more pessimistic view than they did regarding human nature.
5. Hawthorne's short stories, such as 'The Minister's Black Veil' and 'Young Goodman Brown,' exemplify his exploration of the psychological struggles between good and evil.

Review Questions

• How does Nathaniel Hawthorne's background influence his exploration of themes like sin and guilt in his works?
  • Hawthorne's background in Salem, Massachusetts, deeply influenced his writing. Being born into a family with historical ties to the Puritan community, he grappled with the legacy of Puritan ideals and their implications on human behavior. This personal history fueled his fascination with sin and guilt, manifesting in characters who struggle with their moral choices and societal judgment, such as Hester Prynne in 'The Scarlet Letter.'
• In what ways does Hawthorne's use of symbolism enhance the themes he explores in his major works?
  • Hawthorne's masterful use of symbolism serves to deepen the thematic complexity in his writings. In 'The Scarlet Letter,' for example, the scarlet letter itself symbolizes shame but also resilience. Such symbols invite readers to reflect on broader moral dilemmas and societal issues while grounding the characters' personal struggles. His symbolic approach encourages readers to look beyond surface narratives to uncover profound insights into human nature.
• Evaluate how Nathaniel Hawthorne's works reflect the characteristics of Dark Romanticism compared to Transcendentalism.
  • Hawthorne's works exemplify Dark Romanticism through their focus on moral complexity, sin, and the darker aspects of human nature. Unlike Transcendentalism, which emphasizes positivity and individual intuition, Hawthorne presents a more nuanced view that acknowledges inherent flaws and struggles within individuals. For instance, while Transcendentalists celebrate self-reliance and optimism about human goodness, Hawthorne often portrays characters ensnared by guilt and societal constraints, revealing a critical perspective on humanity’s moral landscape.

Related terms

Dark Romanticism:

A literary movement that emphasizes the darker aspects of human experience, often highlighting themes of sin, guilt, and the supernatural.

The Scarlet Letter:

One of Hawthorne's most famous works, this novel tells the story of Hester Prynne, who is shunned by her Puritan community for bearing an illegitimate child.

Transcendentalism: A philosophical movement that emerged in the early 19th century, emphasizing individual intuition and the inherent goodness of people and nature, often contrasting with Hawthorne's darker themes.