"The Scarlet Letter" by Nathaniel Hawthorne is a classic novel set in 17th-century Puritan New England, exploring themes of sin, guilt, and redemption. The story centers on Hester Prynne, a woman who is shamed and ostracized by her community after bearing an illegitimate child. As punishment, she is forced to wear a scarlet letter "A" on her chest as a symbol of her adultery.
Hester’s resilience in the face of public condemnation, her complex relationship with her secret lover, Reverend Dimmesdale, and her defiance of societal norms highlight her strength and integrity. Through rich symbolism and psychological depth, Hawthorne delves into the moral and social tensions of a strict, judgmental society. The Scarlet Letter is regarded as a profound commentary on hypocrisy, judgment, and the human capacity for resilience, making it one of American literature's most enduring works.