Question

After studying the Bill of Rights, think back to The Scarlet Letter and write an essay arguing for which right is most important to Hester, which is most important to Arthur, and which is most important to Roger. How do they exercise these rights in the novel? Finally, write one paragraph explaining which right is most important to you and why. Be sure to use present tense throughout the paper.

Answer 1

In The Scarlet Letter, Hester values freedom of expression, Arthur cherishes the right to privacy, and Roger seeks the right to justice or revenge. These rights reflect the characters' struggles within their historical context. Personally, freedom of speech is essential for self-expression and advocating change.

Step-by-step explanation:

For Hester, the right most important to her in The Scarlet Letter would likely be the freedom of expression. Throughout the novel, she demonstrates resilience and silent defiance against the Puritan society that shuns her. For Arthur Dimmesdale, the right to privacy is paramount as he hides his sin to maintain his position in society. Roger Chillingworth values the right to seek justice or perhaps revenge, which he exercises through his calculated torment of Dimmesdale.

Although these rights are not directly referenced in the novel, as they would be argued in the context of the Bill of Rights, they are thematic reflections of the characters' struggles and the time period in which they lived.

For me, freedom of speech is the most important right as it allows for the exchange of ideas, self-expression, and advocacy for change. It underpins our ability to communicate freely and challenge societal norms when necessary.