Final Answer:
The given statement "Hawthorne's "The Maypole of Merry Mount"): According to Hawthorne in "The Maypole of Merry Mount," the contrast between the words grizzly and gay epitomizes the potential long-term effects on New England of the conflicting views between the two groups." is B. False
Step-by-step explanation:
In "The Maypole of Merry Mount" by Nathaniel Hawthorne, the contrast between the words "grizzly" and "gay" does not epitomize the potential long-term effects on New England of the conflicting views between the two groups. The term "grizzly" is not used in the context of describing contrasting views; rather, it refers to the physical appearance of a character. On the other hand, "gay" in this context does not represent a conflicting view but rather conveys the festive and lively atmosphere of the Maypole celebration. Therefore, the statement that the contrast between these two words epitomizes the potential long-term effects is false.
Hawthorne uses these contrasting words to depict the clash between the Puritans' strict moral values and the more carefree and festive lifestyle of the characters at Merry Mount. However, the long-term effects on New England are more broadly shaped by the larger conflicts and tensions between these two opposing groups. The juxtaposition of "grizzly" and "gay" contributes to the thematic exploration of the story but does not serve as an epitome of the potential long-term effects on the region. Therefore, the correct answer is False, as the statement misinterprets the role of these words in Hawthorne's narrative.