THE SCARLET LETTER - NOVEL - Grades 11, 12

The Scarlet Letter
by Nathaniel Hawthorne

Hester, Roger, and Arthur are caught in a web of sin and deceit. Each holds his or her own key to peace, but will the paths chosen lead to salvation or bitterness?

Book Summary (255 pages)
Category: Historical fiction
Theme: Man’s response to sin
Setting: Boston, 1600s

Related Studies: Early American history, Puritans, Biblical salvation, sin
Enrichment/Writing Focus: Setting, tone, characterization, plot, theme, symbolism

This novel has it all: excellent characterization, intriguing plot, realistic setting, and a timeless theme with a high degree of symbolism.