Examples Of Ambivalence In Young Goodman Brown

In Ambivalence in “Young Goodman Brown”, Walter J. Paulits argues that Nathaniel Hawthorne’s Young Goodman Brown expresses more ambivalence rather than ambiguity over the decisions of Goodman Brown. Ambivalence is seen much more prominent throughout the short story because it is filled with mixed feelings and contradictory ideas. Goodman Brown is an example of how choices come with consequences, good or bad. Goodman Brown is introduced as a good and happy man, married to his wife, Faith. Everything changes once he decides to go into the woods against Faith’s advice. Brown leaves his wife for the unconfirmed meeting in the woods with the Devil. Because of this decision, Brown’s ambivalence is clearly visible. The Devil has already gained the upper hand simply because of his decision to walk into the woods …show more content…
After entering the forest and meeting the Devil, Brown begins to have second thoughts, yet disregards them and continues to proceed into the forest. As the Devil’s role of a tempter is becoming prevalent, Hawthorne uses biblical scenes and Christ to further the theme of ambivalence. Since Brown is hesitant as he walks through the forest, the Devil resumes his temptations, yet if the Devil does not tempt him, Brown’s ambivalence will remain. Once in the forest while meeting with the Devil, Brown is interested in the Witches’ Meeting of initiation. Eventually, he takes one step forward making his decision to become a full member, yet he is unaware of his consequences to come. The Devil’s Work is still unfinished even after his successful temptations. However, if Brown “makes good his only