Question

Which feature of Gothic writing does this passage from Nathaniel Hawthorne's The Scarlet Letter most illustrate? "The averred that the symbol was not mere scarlet cloth tinged in an earthly dyepot, but was red hot with infernal fire and could be seen glowing all alight whenever Hester Prynne walked abroad in the nighttime."

a) Dark and emotional tone
b) Use of symbolism
c) Complex sentence structure
d) Detailed character description

Answer 1

The described passage from The Scarlet Letter exemplifies the Gothic writing feature known as use of symbolism, with the scarlet letter representing complex ideas and emotions.

Step-by-step explanation:

The passage from Nathaniel Hawthorne's The Scarlet Letter that describes the scarlet letter being 'red hot with infernal fire' and glowing at night effectively illustrates the feature of Gothic writing known as use of symbolism. The scarlet letter, as a symbol, represents sin, shame, and the intense personal and public scrutiny that Hester Prynne endures. This supernatural glow reinforces the mark's significance and the idea that her punishment is not just of this world but has infernal connotations. It adds a layer of depth to the narrative, contributing to the dark and emotional tone common in Gothic literature.