The Scaffold's Power. Recurring events in "The Scarlet Letter" by Hawthorne

Recurring events show great significance and elucidate the truth beneath appearances. In The Scarlet Letter Nathaniel Hawthorne chooses the scaffold scenes to show powerful differences and similarities. Each scaffold scene foreshadows the next and brings greater understanding of the novel. By beginning with the first, continuing with the middle, and ending with the last platform scene, we can gain a better understanding of this masterpiece. At the beginning of the book, Hester is brought out …

…love that she would not make Dimmesdale go through what she was going through. The second scaffold scene signifies cowardice. The reverend was suffering much and yet would not relieve his suffering through confession. The ending event signifies bravery. Even though he didn't have to confess, Dimmesdale did. The Scarlet Letter's recurring event was very potent. It gave new aspects and meanings to the story that were integral to the book's power. Truth overcomes deception.